how to visit oxford from london

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Planning an Oxford Day Trip: A Guide to Visiting Oxford from London

Last updated: November 11, 2021 - Written by Jessica Norah 38 Comments

Oxford is a university city situated about 60 miles from London, making a Oxford day trip an ideal way to get out of the bustling capital for a day or weekend to explore this compact historical city. Nicknamed the City of Dreaming Spires, Oxford is best known as the home of England’s oldest university, the University of Oxford, which is still one of the most respected in the country.

A trip to Oxford wouldn’t be complete without touring a couple of university buildings, but Oxford has much else to offer. A visitor might go on a walking tour of the downtown, browse for souvenirs at the Covered Market, go punting on the River Cherwell, take a tour of a medieval castle, stroll in a pretty garden, enjoy a drink in a historical tavern, or even take a short drive to visit one of England’s most beautiful and famous country homes.

Laurence spent a lot of time in Oxford growing up and we’ve visited it a few times now over the past several years and really love this university city. We’ll share our advice and tips on planning a perfect Oxford day trip from London, and also offer plenty of things to do if you want to stay over and spend a few days in this history-filled city.

Table of Contents:

Basic Information about Oxford

Below we share all the planning information to help you get to Oxford from London, how to get around Oxford, where to stay if you decide to spend the night, and further travel resources.

Where is Oxford? 

Oxford is located within the county of Oxfordshire in southeast England. It is about 60 miles northwest of London and 73 miles east of Bristol. 

How to Get from London to Oxford?

You have a variety of options for getting to Oxford from London (or elsewhere in the UK), including by car, bus, or train. You can also visit Oxford via a guided tour or by booking a taxi or private transfer from London. 

Oxford by Car

If you have your own car, it is about a 1.5 hours drive from Oxford to central London. You can check and compare rental car prices across companies at Auto Europe  if interested in renting a car for the trip. We often find that Enterprise has the best car hire rates.

If you are driving, there  are a number of paid  public car parks in Oxford, just be sure to stay out of permit-only parking zones. 

Oxford by Bus

If you are interested in traveling by bus it is about a 1.5 journey and you can check prices at National Express as well as the Oxford Bus Company .

Oxford by Train

It is also convenient to get from London to Oxford by train and the journey takes about an hour, check National Rail for train schedules and prices. 

Oxford by Taxi

It is about a 1.5 hour taxi ride from London to Oxford. If you want to book a taxi during your time in the UK, we recommend comparing prices and booking via minicabit .

Taking a Guided Day Tour to Oxford from London

Another option if you don’t want to drive or take public transportation is to take a guided tour. These will include your transport to and from London, a guide, and many tour prices include some entrance fees.

Some day tours may also only go to Oxford, but most also include other attractions like Windsor Castle, the Cotswolds villages, Stratford-upon-Avon, Stonehenge, Cambridge, and/or Blenheim Palace.

Here are some options:

• This full day tour from London visits Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon, and the Cotswolds.
• This tour includes Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Oxford.
• This guided tour visits both Oxford and Cambridge, England’s oldest and most prestigious university towns.
• This private tour by Oxford Alumni visits Oxford, Bath, and Stonehenge and allows you to customize the itinerary as you wish.

Getting around Oxford?

The best way to get around central Oxford is on foot as most attractions are centrally located. But you can also take a public bus , drive, or taxi to get around the town or explore the wider Oxfordshire area.

Staying in Oxford? 

If our articles temps you to decide to spend the night in Oxford rather than visiting as a day trip, there are a number of lodging option in and around Oxford, from luxury hotels to comfortable  bed-and-breakfasts to budget-friendly  hostels . You can compare all the lodging options here .

If you are visiting by train or bus, you’ll want to choose something in central Oxford and within easy walking distance of most of the city’s main attractions.

Here is a list of suggested options for those exploring on foot for all budgets (lowest to highest):

• Central Backpackers – This well-rated hostel offers dormitory style beds and lives up to its name with a central location in Oxford. Located near the train station and a 8 minute walk from the center of Oxford. A great option for those on a tight budget.
• The Richmond – A good value hotel that offers budget-friendly rooms, breakfast, and a restaurant. A 15 minute walk from the center of Oxford.
• Museum Hotel Oxford – This popular midrange hotel offers one of the best locations in  Oxford in a building dating back to the 16th century. Centrally located; a 2 minute walk from Carfax Tower.
• Macdonald Randolph Hotel   – A  5-star hotel within a landmark city building. It is located across from the Ashmolean Museum and offers a restaurant, bar, and popular spa.
• Old Parsonage Hotel – A 5-star luxury boutique hotel set in a historical 17th century house, offering a garden library, bar, and restaurant. It is located within a short walk of the city center.

Those with a car can also choose from lodging outside the city center which is often a bit less expensive. Here are a few more options further away from the town center:

• Green & White House – A well-rated good value B&B that offers free bike hire, on-site parking, and breakfast. Located a bit outside the center. A 4 minute drive or a 25 minute walk to the city center.
• Noa Residence – A well-rated self-catering apartment hotel that offer well-equipped kitchens, free parking, and daily cleaning services. Located 1 mile from the city center.
• Swinford Manor Farm B&B – A beautiful countryside B&B set in a historical manor farmhouse located along the River Thames. Offers a free breakfast, extensive woodland views, and free parking. A 12 minute drive from central Oxford.
• Hawkbill House – A 4-star hotel made up of two 19th century manor houses in the nearby village of Iffey. Hotel offers a restaurant, bar, 24-hour room service, and free parking.  A 7 minute drive from the town center.

Further Information on Oxford? 

The local tourism office offers a variety of information and can help you make any bookings as needed. While you are in the city, stop by the Oxford Visitor Information Centre (telephone: 01865 252200), located at 15-16 Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 3AS in central Oxford for information, maps, public transit schedules, luggage storage, and tour bookings.

You can also visit the tourism website  Experience Oxfordshire  for planning your time in Oxford and the wider Oxfordshire area.

If you have the time, we’d also recommend staying over and spending a couples of days in the city and then exploring the area further afield. Oxford also makes a great jumping off point to continue your exploration of this part of England to visits places such as Stonehenge , Bath, and the Cotswolds villages.  You can read our  one-week UK itinerary  and 2 week UK itinerary for even more recommendations.

Planning your Oxford Day Trip from London

We’ll share a number of great things to do in Oxford so you can put together an itinerary for your own Oxford day trip from London no matter what your interests.

Take a Walking Tour

A walking tour is almost always a great way to get a good introduction to a new city. There are a number of walking tours, bike tours, and bus tours that you can take while in Oxford, including some that are free with a requested donation. 

We decided to take the 2-hour Oxford University and City Tour , which starts at the visitor center and is run by the tourism board . Another popular option is to take a tour of Oxford with a student , which will give you another perspective on living and learning in the city.

Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and guided us through part of the historical downtown, The Covered Market, Radcliffe Square, and two of the university buildings, including an optional stop at the beautiful Divinity School. Our guide was great at pointing out shops, university buildings, and museums along the way that might be of interest for us to visit which helped us better plan the rest of our time in the city.

In addition to these more general city tours, there are also other Oxford tours focused on the town’s history,  Inspector Morse , literature,  Harry Potter , architecture, etc.

Get a Bird Eye’s View of Oxford

Getting a good view of a city is always a great way to gain a better sense of its layout and to get some great cityscape photos. Some of the best city vantage points can be found by visiting the iconic St. Martin’s Tower, known to most residents as Carfax Tower (the only remaining part of the 12th century St. Martin’s church), the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin, and St. Michael Northgate.

We enjoyed an excellent view from the top of the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin , which is right next to the Radcliffe Camera. 

All of these vantage points charge small admission fees and require visitors to climb a number of stairs. There is also a decent city view from the tower during the Oxford Castle tour we did.

Feed Your Inner Scholar at the Museums

As you might suspect with a city best known for its university, there are a lot of museums to be found in the city, most associated with the university. They are numerous and range from the broad in focus to the very narrow, so you are sure to find at least one that is of interest. The best thing is that just about all the city’s museums offer free admission!

The Ashmolean Museum  was the first ever public university museum, starting as a small 17th century collection of curiosities and portraits and now containing a wide collection of paintings, coins, musical instruments, antiquities, and statues housed in a beautiful old building.

The  Museum of Oxford , located in the Town Hall, focuses on the history of Oxford and tells the story of the city’s development through a range of archaeological and social history objects. You can also book a tour of the Town Hall for a small fee. 

For modern art lovers there is the Modern Art Oxford museum and those who love drawings should check out the Christ Church Picture Gallery .  Oxford University Museum of Natural History includes the university’s collection of zoological, geological, entomological, paleontological, and mineralogical specimens and artifacts.

The  Pitt Rivers Museum , adjacent to the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, is a museum devoted to ethnographic and archaeological objects from around the world.

Others include museums devoted to printing , musical instruments , and the history of science  ( housed in the original historical Ashmolean Museum building).

There are also regular exhibitions (often free and open to public) happening all over the city, both in and out of museums, so be sure to check to see what is on during your visit. T he Bodeleian Libraries in particular often seem to have public exhibitions, and while we were visiting one of the original Magna Carta copies (the library has 4!) and related objects were on display to commemorate the 800th anniversary of this important document. 

Get Locked up at Oxford Castle

On the western side of central Oxford, you’ll find the ruins of Oxford Castle dating back to the 2nd century. Much of the castle was destroyed during the 17th century English Civil War and in the 18th century, the building was turned into the city prison. It actually continued to serve as a prison until 1996!

Today, you can book guided tours of  Oxford Castle Unlocked of the remaining safe historical sections of the castle/prison, namely St. George’s Tower and the crypt. Costumed guides will take you around the castle and tell you about its history, with a focus on the castle’s role in two of England’s civil wars (The Anarchy and the Barons’ War) and you’ll hear tales about Empress Matilda, Robert D’Oyly the Younger, and King Stephen.

After the tour, you can explore the outdoor areas, mainly the Motte (a big earth mound), on your own. Even if you decide to forego the tour, the castle is worth a look from the outside if you are nearby.

Try Punting on the River Cherwell

Oxford sits at the confluence of two rivers, the mighty Thames and the Cherwell, and the city owes it early development to the presence of these two rivers. In the past, a male-only bathing spot (Parson’s Pleasure) and female-only nude bathing spot (Dame’s Delight) were to be found along the river although these have been closed in recent decades.

Today, visitors can still enjoy river boat trips as well as punting on the rivers. During our visit, Laurence decided to try to teach me about punting. We headed to the Cherwell Boathouse  to rent a punt, which looks a bit like a canoe except it is a flat-bottomed boat with a square-cut bow. One person sits down and the other stands on a section of the boat with a pole and pushes the pole against the river bed and sides with a pole. It turns out that a punt is more difficult to steer and navigate than a canoe, at least in our inexperienced cases!

A good thing about punting is that it is quite a slow-going process and you can easily stop off along the trip for a picnic, to take a walk, or to visit one of the local bars along the river. Just ask the boathouse for tips about where to go before you set off.  We had a female duck climbing in and out of our punt during part of the trip which kept me very amused while Laurence was doing the hard punting work!

Have a Drink

Like any university town, you won’t find a shortage of bars and pubs in Oxford. Laurence recommends The Eagle & Child (popular with Tolkien), The White Horse, the Lamb and Flag, and the King’s Arms (oldest pub in Oxford).

During my first trip to Oxford, we sought out The Turf Tavern   which is down a little alley called St Helen’s Passage (originally Hell’s passage), between Holywell Street and New College Lane, next to Oxford’s Bridge of Sighs. 

The Turf Tavern is one of the oldest pubs in Oxford, and has a lovely outdoor beer garden as well as plentiful indoor seating and a wide selection of beers as well as food. It is something of a pilgrimage site with university students, famous visitors, and us average tourists all venturing into this back alley haunt. One of the more famous visitors was Bill Clinton who was a Rhodes scholar at Oxford.

If you are looking for something less alcoholic and a bit more civilized, a you might want to have a traditional afternoon tea experience at the Macdonald Randolph Hotel  (reservations strongly recommended) or   The Grand Cafe (served all day). Or grab a Tawainese bubble tea from the  Formosan Tea Bar.

Go Shopping 

Oxford is also a great place for some retail therapy. Along Oxford’s High Street you’ll find a number of local and independent boutiques, gift shops, and handicrafts that are popular with both students and visitors. Book lovers will want to make a stop at the famous Blackwell’s book store which has been selling books and textbooks in Oxford since 1879.

Most people make their way at some point to Oxford’s Covered Market which has been around since 1774. You’ll find everything from butchers to fishmongers ready to serve up fresh food and produce and bakers and baristas serving ready-to-eat treats and coffee. In addition to food, you’ll also find shops selling clothing, flowers, toys, souvenirs, jewelry, and pet supplies.

For those seeking discounted luxury goods, you might head a bit out of town to Bicester Village  which boasts over 100 retail shops. You can get to the shopping village by public bus (about 35 minutes), taxi, or by car (about a 20 minute drive) from Oxford.

Visit Blenheim Palace 

The English countryside is full of beautiful historical country homes, and just outside of Oxford you’ll find one of the most famous English homes, Blenheim Palace . Blenheim Palace is the official residence of the Duke of Marlborough and is also the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill .

This famous 18th century country house is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and stands in a romantic park created by the famous landscape gardener Lancelot “Capability'” Brown. Both self-guided and guided tours are available of different sections of the house.

There are also restaurants, cafés, a gift shop. There is a lot to see and do here so we’d recommend allotting at least a few hours for your visit. 

If Blenheim Place sounds interesting, you can read our separate post about our tips for visiting Blenheim Palace and on finding Winston Churchill’s grave located nearby.  

You can reach Blenheim Palace by car, public bus, or as part of  a guided tour from Oxford .

Explore the University Buildings

Although no one actually knows when the University of Oxford started, there is evidence of teaching here since 1096 and the university received an official charter in 1248. It is believed to be the oldest English-speaking university in the world and the second oldest university in the world still in operation!

The university buildings would give the city its nickname “City of Dreaming Spires” and the university still remains one of the most prominent features of the city.

Oxford University is made of thirty-eight colleges, each of which is independently governed, and a visit to at least one of the colleges is a must-do on a Oxford day trip. Many of the colleges allow visitors (usually for a small fee) to visit some of the buildings, such as the main square, gardens, chapel, and/or dining hall. But whether a college is admitting visitors depends a lot on the time of year and time of day and what is happening at the college at the time (e.g., exams, graduation, meals, summer break) and each college has its own schedule and policies.

During our time in Oxford, we specifically visited several colleges either as part of our city walking tour or later on our own including Wadham College, Jesus College, Exeter College, and Trinity College. We also visited the beautiful Divinity School which is a 15th century medieval building used for lectures and exams in theology, and today forms part of the Bodleian Libraries .

While the interior is normally closed to the public, visitors can get a good view of the interesting circular Radcliffe Camera (used as student library and reading rooms) from Radcliffe Square.

Harry Potter fans may be particularly interested in visiting both the Divinity School and Christ Church college which were both used as prominent film locations in the Harry Potter films. You can also book a specific Harry Potter walking tour of Oxford of course !

Before your visit, I would make a list of colleges you’d like to visit and then when in town you can stop at each college’s porter’s office (near the entrance of each college) and check to see if the college is allowing visits and check visiting hours.

You can also book a tour that includes university buildings on the tour as we did at the tourism office.

Note that you can even stay in one of the university residence halls which are rented out in some colleges during holiday and summer breaks – you can search for available rooms here .

Attend a Performance or Festival

There is almost always a play, concert, festival, recital, film, lecture, or art exhibition happening on any given day in Oxford. Many of those that are connected to the university are free or low-cost and make a perfect way to enhance an Oxford day trip. This is a great way to experience the wonderful cultural offerings of Oxford and see inside some of the lovely venues.

Going to the theater is a popular activity in Oxford, especially the outdoor performances of Shakespeare plays in the summer. You can check what is happening during your visit at the Oxfordshire Tourism Board and the Oxford City Guide websites or by stopping by the tourism board.

If you intend to see a show or performance while in town, you should check the listings at the individual theaters (such as the Oxford Playhouse and the Old Fire Station ) and buy your tickets in advance. 

Explore Oxford’s Gardens & Parks

Oxford has a number of lovely green spaces and gardens that can be explored when you need a break from museums, shopping, and the university buildings. For instance the 70-acre University Park offers a great place to walk and stretch your legs, watch a free cricket game, or spy on the ducks at the duck pond.

You’ll also find several other parks and meadows in the area, including the oldest botanical garden in England . The Oxford Botanic Garden & Arboretum was founded back in 1621!

We found some lovely flowers and views while walking along the River Cherwell and some of the University of Oxford colleges such as Trinity College have gardens that are open to the public. 

Which of these would be on your list if you were planning an Oxford day trip? Have you made an Oxford day trip from London? Do you have any recommendations for things to do in Oxford? As always, feel free to comment and we’re happy to answer any questions about Oxford day trip. 

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**Disclosure: We’ve visited Oxford numerous times. On one of our trip to Oxford Visit Britain covered our accommodation, walking tour, punting trip, and Oxford Castle visit and Auto Europe provide a complimentary rental car during a separate visit to Oxford; however, this article contains only our own honest thoughts and opinions. You can read more in our Ethics Code about how we accept work.**

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shane sterling Post author

July 10, 2023 at 10:59 am

Hi what a great blog on a day trip from London to oxford. i am so glad you mentioned the covered market as so many people leave that hidden gem out. its a great place with some quirky shops. also the walking tours i have been on quite a few of the walking tours and thought they need something that bit extra.. i have come up with my own walking tour, oxford magic tours, which i am just launching. its a tour with live entertainment. if ever your back in oxford and would like to join the tour please let me know. it would be great if you could make it and maybe write about it. keep up the great work regards Shane

Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author

July 12, 2023 at 5:54 am

Yes, the covered market in oxford is definitely a place we recommend to those visiting Oxford. Glad you are starting your own tours company, we have done the Harry Potter magical tours, like this one , with Visit Oxford but haven’t done a live entertainment magic tour before so sounds like a new type of offering. Hope it goes well and we’ll definitely consider checking it out next time we are in Oxford.

Best, Jessica

Udita Post author

January 5, 2020 at 1:33 pm

Hi we would like to visit Oxford with our two kids aged 9 and 7 . James aged nine and a half is interested in the exploring the university so we would appreciate suggestions and will visit from London. We also need to decide if to do car or train as Stonehenge is also on the itinerary. Thanks Udita

January 6, 2020 at 1:46 pm

We’d recommend train as it is really easy to get from central London to Oxford by train and most things in Oxford can be reached on foot. If you are just going for a day trip, I’d definitely recommend train.

Some parts of the university are open to the public, those that are open often charge a fee for visitors to view a few of the public areas. It also depends on the academic year and school events if certain buildings are open to the public or not. So if there are specific colleges he is interested in seeing, you might want to check in advance if they allow visits and what you can see. But if you are just generally interested in the university, joining a walking tour is a great way to see some parts of the university and learn more about it and the city. We recommend 2 of them in the article above, both which are great for those specifically interested in the university. Or you can arrange a private tour if you want one that is just for your family and they can then adjust it to be a bit more kid friendly.

If there are a lot of things you want to do in Oxford, I’d recommend spending most of the day there as there is plenty to keep you busy for a day out. But if you are just interested in spending a few hours, then you can definitely combine it with a visit to Stonehenge on the same day if you want. Or you can do it on a separate day.

For Stonehenge, if you go by public transit, you can take the train from Oxford (or London) to Salisbury. Then there’s a shuttle bus that goes directly from Salisbury train station to Stonehenge, and it leaves about every 30 minutes. You can use it to just get to and from Stonehenge or you can buy a ticket that includes entry to Stonehenge and Salisbury Cathedral and can also stop at Old Sarum if you have more time. You can see the shuttle bus timetable here . For more tips, this article about visiting Stonehenge as part of a day trip might be useful to you as well.

When visiting Stonehenge just make sure that if you are doing it as part of a day trip and plan to also stop elsewhere that you keep the schedules in mind as you want to arrive with plenty of time to enjoy the visitor center and displays and the stones themselves. A lot of people end up rushing around.

Hope that helps and enjoy your trip to London! Jessica

Selina Post author

July 9, 2019 at 1:11 am

For a 1-day trip to Oxford, when do things generally close in Oxford? I’m trying to plan my return train trip. Would 8pm be too late?

July 9, 2019 at 10:42 pm

Hi Selina, It depends, but yes, most of the museums and tourist attractions close around 5pm or 6pm. But there will still be shops and other places open in Oxford and you can have a drink or dinner before heading back. So I think a 8pm train back would work fine if you want to spend the day in Oxford and end with a drink or meal. Otherwise, you could book your train a little earlier. Best, Jessica

Sophie Post author

September 22, 2018 at 8:10 am

Fantastic and informative post, guys – great work! I think some tourists who come to London have so many other things they want to see in the city that they might not get round to visiting Oxford. But Oxford is a fantastic place to visit! It’s so pretty and there’s so much history there. It’s a perfect place to go for a day trip if you’re an international student who is living in London, or someone who has come to stay in London for a few months rather than just a week! I’d definitely recommend to anyone if they have the time.

September 25, 2018 at 8:14 pm

Hi Sophie, Thanks for taking the time to comment. Yes, we really love Oxford as well. Laurence used to live and go to school nearby when he was younger and likes to return to visit. It makes a great day trip from London for those interested in seeing a historic university town in England. We need to return again soon ourselves 😉 Best, Jessica

Vandana Post author

May 23, 2017 at 4:43 am

Hello dear,

such a apt write up with lovely pictures.

Me and my husband are planning to be in London next month. We will be in London / or around London for a week and then will be moving to Scotland post that. we plan to visit Oxford or cambridge or both, Stonehedge and York… Could you please suggest which of these places I can visit as day trip from london (i ll be staying with friends in paddington , london) and where I need to spend time overnight. we are young couple interested in architecture, fun, music and pubs

Appreciate your help! Vandana

May 25, 2017 at 3:38 am

Hi Vandana, If you have a week in London, I would probably not want to do more than two day trips from London if you also want to explore London since there is already so much to do there. We’re recommend getting a London Pass which covers most of the London attractions you’ll likely want to see and then consider a couple of the places you listed as day trips.

For the day trips, you can either drive yourself, take a local bus or train, or book a tour. Oxford and Cambridge are both fairly easy day trips from London (about 45 minutes to 1 hour on the train). Stonehenge is also a fairly easy day trip from London and best if you either have a car or book a bus tour – many of the bus tours also stop in the town of Bath as well. York is further away and you’ll need to take the train (2 hours each way) or bus and won’t have a lot of time to explore if you have to return so I’d recommend you stay overnight if you want to visit York or skip it on this trip.

Hope this helps. Best, Jessica

Leah Post author

May 14, 2017 at 1:52 am

Dear Jessica,

This is an excellent post!! We are planning our visit according to it, looking forward to get to Oxford, finally! 🙂 Just one technical question please- there’s a link to Oxford Tourism Board that doesn’t work. I looked it up and came up with this one: http://www.experienceoxfordshire.org/ It matches pretty much everything you mention, Is it indeed the same one..? Also, you mentioned the walking tour you took costs £9, but here the only tours i see start with £16. Not trying to scrimp or anything, just trying to find the one you recommended on 🙂 Would appreciate your advice.

Thanks a bunch!

May 14, 2017 at 2:18 am

Yes, thanks for pointing that out. It appears that one of the websites for Oxford tourism is now gone and whomever took it down did not do any redirects (frustrating for those who have linked to anything on their site!). I will update my links!

So yes, the Experience Oxfordshire is probably the best website in terms of official tourism info as it covers the entire region and I could not find an official one for just Oxford. In terms of the walk, the one we did is this one: Oxford University and City Walking Tour and appears to have risen in price a bit (this one is £14 if booked online). This one is sort of the “official” one and leaves from the visitor center. There are other Oxford city walks through companies such as Footprints , which offer paid and free walking tours in the city but I can’t speak to the quality as we haven’t taken any of them.

Hope this helps you book your tour in Oxford and do let us know if you have any other questions!

Mr. Mahmud Post author

April 19, 2017 at 10:00 am

Thank you for this thorough list about places to see in Oxford England! I’m going to London for the first period next weekend break. With one totally free day I now have various choices to pick for my day journey from London.

April 20, 2017 at 7:24 am

Hi Mr. Mahmud, You’re very welcome. If you only have one day, I would probably spend it in London but if you are there for 6 days or more, I would venture out to do some day trips and Oxford is a really great choice! Best, Jessica

budget jan Post author

May 21, 2016 at 3:56 pm

I’d like Trinity College Gardens, punting and antique shopping. Lovely photos of course 🙂

travelcats Post author

May 22, 2016 at 10:53 am

Hi Jan, those are all great places to visit while in Oxford!

Zaria Post author

May 8, 2016 at 3:21 pm

Hi Jessica and Laurence,

What an amazing experience! I would love to take a tour at the castle, so enchanting! The antique shops along with the architecture are fantastic. I hope one day I will be able to visit Oxford. Great post, thank you!

May 12, 2016 at 12:39 pm

Hi Zaria! Thanks for taking the time to comment on our post. Yes, Oxford is a great place to do some shopping and has some great museums and architecture! I hope you have the opportunity to visit some day. Best, Jessica

Mathavan Post author

May 2, 2016 at 4:34 am

I am really like the London and its places for the architectural style and its heritage building. Your one day trip plan and advice is very useful for who planing to a visit to Oxford from London! Thanks!

May 3, 2016 at 6:46 am

Hello Mathavan, Glad you found our article helpful in helping you plan your time in London. If you have already enjoyed a lot of the attractions in London, then a day trip to Oxford is a perfect way to get out of the city and see something new! A great excursion for those who love history, literature, and architecture. ~ Jessica

eileen g Post author

April 21, 2016 at 6:42 am

A lot of these sites look familiar to me from watching Morse on the BBC. It seems the show made the most of its Oxford setting. It seems like a very charming small city to spend a day or two in!

April 21, 2016 at 12:41 pm

Hi Eileen, Yes, I bet you do. I have never seen Inspector Morse but a lot of the show takes place in Oxford and so you probably are familiar with many of the main sights from watching the show. You would probably enjoy some of the walking tours that are themed around Inspector Morse! Oxford is a great city to explore over a weekend! ~ Jessica

Marcia Post author

April 17, 2016 at 6:34 pm

I love the bird’s eye view of the city. Must have to do that next time. Oxford is such a beautiful city – there’s something to see and do around every corner.

April 18, 2016 at 2:50 am

Hi Marcia, Yes, climbing up towers and getting good views (and photos) is one of Laurence’s favorite things to do in a new place. Luckily, there are a few ways to get good city views in Oxford:) ~ Jessica

Ruth Post author

April 17, 2016 at 3:40 pm

I like all your suggestions. How many days did you spend on the city? I will like to try punting. Well, I will let somebody else do the “rowing” since I do not thing I will be able to maintain my balance ;0)

April 18, 2016 at 2:47 am

Hi Ruth, Laurence actually went to boarding school just outside Oxford so we have stayed in or near Oxford a few times. But in order to get a good overview of Oxford, I would recommend 2 full days or 3 nights. That would give you time to visit a few of the university buildings, climb a tower or two, go punting for a couple of hours, visit the castle if you wanted, see the Covered Market, and visit a couple of museums. Yes, I was nervous about punting as I was afraid of our punt would flip and get all our camera gear wet! But lucky we never tipped over:) ~ Jessica

Rob Post author

April 16, 2016 at 3:37 pm

Have not visited Oxford, but would love to! Particularly to see Trinity and Exeter Colleges. I did not know staying in one of the dorms was an option! That’s something we’ll definitely check into. Great photos – they are certainly adding to the wanderlust we’re feeling!

April 17, 2016 at 1:56 pm

Hi Rob, Yes, it is a great way to visit the city if you don’t mind staying in a dormitory style room (many don’t have kitchen facilities and have shared bathrooms down the hall) and a fairly well-priced option. We have never visited at the right times of year but we’d love to do this in the future as well! ~ Jessica

Jackie Post author

April 16, 2016 at 6:28 am

Thanks for this great post, I linked it up on my Facebook page. We haven’t been to Oxford since the 1990s and were just saying we need to go back.

April 17, 2016 at 1:54 pm

Hi Jackie, Thanks so much for sharing our article on your FB page! Yes, we keep returning to Oxford so I am sure you’d enjoy a return visit as well:) ~ Jessica

Lyn Post author

April 15, 2016 at 9:50 pm

I’ve never been to Oxford but after seeing this now want to go. I just love the photo inside the chapel. There looks like a lot to see and do in Oxford, sounds like maybe more than a daytrip if we want to see it at its best. Thank you for sharing with us!

April 17, 2016 at 1:53 pm

Hi Lyn, oh yes, the Exeter Chapel is fairly small but so beautiful! Many of the chapels, dining halls, and gardens of the university buildings are definitely worth exploring if they are open during a visit. It is amazing how old some of the university and museum buildings are in the city. Yes, I think many people visit Oxford as a day trip from London or elsewhere but I think you could easily spend 2-3 days exploring the city more in-depth. We’ve been a few times together and are planning to return again later this month actually to visit a couple more places. ~ Jessica

Kerri Post author

April 15, 2016 at 9:08 pm

A very comprehensive guide to all things Oxford. I would love to go punting. I’ve been to the UK many times now but have never managed to fit this in.

April 17, 2016 at 1:49 pm

Hi Kerri, Punting is a very good thing to do in the UK. Some of Laurence’s friends from Oxford are very skilled at it! We did OK but it definitely takes some getting used to the steering. I’d definitely advise trying it if you are in the Uk in the Spring or Summer and have a day of good weather – great way to see an area slowly and to spend the afternoon with a picnic. ~ Jessica

Michael Woods Post author

April 14, 2016 at 7:33 am

So jealous! I’ve wanted to tour around London for a looong time. Haven’t found the time yet though..

April 17, 2016 at 1:47 pm

Hi Michael, there are many great places around London that are wonderful places to go – we’ve done many day and weekend trips in the London area. Laurence spent a lot of time growing up around Oxford so we return to that area quite often. I hope you find the time to explore some of these places on future trips! ~ Jessica

Seana Turner Post author

April 13, 2016 at 5:39 am

I’ve never been to Oxford and would love to go. I need to stay long enough in London to allow for it. Such a beautiful city. I would try the punting just for the experience, but learning about the history of places is my favorite part. And climbing towers – I love a good view!

April 17, 2016 at 1:45 pm

Yes, there are so many things to do in London that a lot of people don’t leave the city, especially if time is short. But I think Oxford is a great city to explore if you have the time and want to see a great historical university city in the UK. Yes, there are a few places that you can get a great view of Oxford and some exercise climbing all those steps! 🙂

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12 Things To Do On A Day Trip To Oxford From London! By Train or Bus!

Categories England , London , U.K

Oxford is a great city to spend the day in and due to the short journey time, it’s very possible to do a day trip to Oxford from London getting there by Bus or by Train.

There are so many things to do in Oxford in one day so in this list I have included things to see in Oxford like famous historical buildings that are must-visits in Oxford, especially if you are visiting for the first time!

But, I have also given you a few  different and unique Oxford Day Trip things to do that you can’t miss and that will make you feel like a local in Oxford!

Day Trip To Oxford From London

How to get to Oxford from London.

London to oxford by train., london to oxford by bus..

It’s possible to get a bus from London to Oxford too. It takes slightly longer at about 2 hours but it will more often than not be cheaper than the train with prices starting from £5.00 each way through The Train Line too .

I would definitely check both train and bus options though as the bus may actually be more expensive if you are looking to go within the next few days!

Oxford Day Tours From London.

If you’re short on time, you want to visit more than just Oxford in one day, or you want things organised for you, a  day tour from London to Oxford is a good idea:

This tour combines Oxford and the Harry Potter Studio!

This tour combines Oxford with the nearby Cotswolds from London ,

This tour visits Oxford and Cambridge in one day from London.

Oxford Day Trip Things To Do!

1. visit oxford castle first.

Oxford Castle is well located right next to Oxford Train Station, therefore if you want to visit, it’s a good idea to go when you get off the train to save you time because you only have one day in Oxford.

Oxford Castle is number one on my list of things to do in Oxford on a day trip to Oxford from London because if you start off here, you’ll get to witness some of Oxford’s oldest (and scariest) history!

2. Brunch at The Handle Bar Cafe & Kitchen

After getting to Oxford by bus or train if you’re like me you’ll be very hungry, especially if you did visit Oxford Castle first, and it will be the perfect time for brunch or lunch, and The Handle Bar Cafe is a great place to head to.

Oxford train station is right in the centre of the city which is another reason why it’s easy to do a day trip to Oxford from London!

The Handle Bar Cafe is a 10-minute walk into the centre . It’s very deceiving as the downstairs entry is a bike shop, however upstairs is a beautifully decorated, light, quaint but modern cafe with a bike theme.

Their menu is amazing for brunch and lunch options. I had the Vegan Avocado on Toast but I did get food envy over the pancakes.

This is a great way to start your oxford day trip and get planning your route around Oxford.

3. Snap the Colourful Houses on Holywell Street

For one of the unique things to do in Oxford on your day trip from London, head Holywell Street which has a beautiful row of pastel-coloured terrace buildings.

It’s also home to many more beautiful houses and what I loved perhaps more, is that this street was so quiet compared to the busy main streets on a Saturday afternoon. Definitely visit Holywell Street if you need some colour and calm!

4. Visit the Famous Colleges and Universities

Oxford is known for its beautiful buildings and especially those of its colleges and universities!

Merton College is in the centre of Oxford which makes it easy to visit on a day trip to Oxford from London, it’s one of the oldest college’s in Oxford and is only £3.00 to enter!

Christ Church College is where you should head if you are a Harry Potter fan as it was used as a filming location!

Magdalen College is another beautiful building and college right in the centre of Oxford. It’s right near the river too which makes it a great place to go punting from. Keep reading for more information on that!

5. Check out a View of Oxford from the University Church of St Mary’s

I love visiting a viewpoint in a new city for a viewpoint in Oxford, going up the spire of the University Church of St Mary’s seems like the best way to see Oxford.

It’s right in the centre, opposite the very iconic and beautiful Radcliffe Camera (my next point) and best of all its pretty inexpensive at £4.00 , which is great considering Oxford is a popular city for tourists!

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6. Marvel at the Radcliffe Camera

Ok, this is a famous historic building in Oxford, not a hidden gem, but it has to be on my list of things to do in Oxford on a day trip, you can’t go on a day trip to Oxford from London and not see it!

I think the Radcliffe Camera is the most iconic building in Oxford and it’s not hard to see why as it’s really beautiful! It’s part of the University and was built in 1737–49 to house the Radcliffe Science Library.

It’s not possible to go inside but the outside makes up for it I think!

7. Explore the Historic Covered Markets

Oxford is all about the big beautiful buildings so I was surprised to come across the historic covered market full of indie shops and small alleys. It’s another nice break from the busy main streets and tourist attractions of Oxford.

For more ways to see Oxford, have a look at these walking tours, bus tours and boat tours which you can book online in advance so your day is planned out for you!

8. Drink on the Rooftop of The Varsity Club like a Local!

The Varsity Club is right next to the covered market so if you go to one, you should go to both!

It’s a buzzing bar and beautifully decorated but the real selling point, in my opinion, is the rooftop! Whether you’re in need of an alcoholic drink or not I would try to get up there for some kind of drink during your day trip to Oxford from London!

I went on a Saturday in Spring and the streets were busy however we got a table on the rooftop within 10 minutes at lunchtime and I would say it’s because The Varsity Club is more popular with locals rather than tourists so it’s perfect for your day in Oxford and one of the best things to do in Oxford on a day trip!

Once you get to Oxford, if you want a guide to show you around so you can learn more about the city, these would be really great tours to go on:

9. Afternoon Tea at Vaults and Garden Cafe

This is Oxford’s most unusual Cafe as it’s based inside the University’s Old Congregation House from 1320 amongst gravestones, and right opposite the Radcliffe Camera! Vaults and Garden Cafe offer’s breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea using local and fresh products.

We had the afternoon tea which was really yummy and they were able to accommodate me with vegan alternatives. You do have to pre-book the afternoon tea but you can just turn up for breakfast or lunch. If the sun is shining try to sit outside too!

If you’d rather have Afternoon Tea on a Sightseeing River Cruise, you can book that here!

10. See an Alternative side of Oxford on Cowley Road

Cowley Roadmile-longe long street which runs South-East from Oxford’s Magdalene Bridge.

It’s gone from being a very poor area of the city to a very bohemian area of Oxford thanks to its young, international influence, and many international bars and restaurants.

I didn’t get to visit when I was there but I would try to if I was you as it sounds very interesting and it’s home to a lot of history, but in different ways than the rest of the city. It seems like the perfect place for dinner before heading back home and to London.

11. Get Green in the Botanical Gardens

The University of Oxford Botanical Gardens is the oldest Botanical Garden in England and it’s located right in the city centre so if you’re over the architecture and need some greenery then head here.

It costs £4.50 to enter and there are free tours available too. All of the plants are named so you know what you’re looking at. I didn’t go but after reading this post on the gardens I wish I had so add this to your Oxford day trip things to do.

12. Punting, because you’re in Oxford!

I couldn’t leave punting off of the list of things to do in Oxford on a day trip could I!

We didn’t go punting on my day trip to Oxford from London and I wouldn’t think it’s much fun if you’re on your own but if you’re in a group and it’s not too much of a wait for the boats (we saw some big queues) then its worth going as it is very English and very Oxford!

FAQ About Day Trips to Oxford from London

How do i spend a day in oxford.

There are so many things to do in Oxford for one day including visiting Oxford castle, visiting famous collages and universities, going punting on the river, visiting the markets and shops in Oxford and enjoying the good cafes and restaurants.

What is the best way to get from London to Oxford?

The best way to get from London to Oxford is via train as there is a quick and easy train route and Oxford train station is in the centre of the city. There is also a bus that runs from London to Oxford, or you can drive.

How much does it cost to travel from London to Oxford?

The bus from London to Oxford starts at £5.00 each way and train tickets start at £13.00 off peak.

Is Oxford worth visiting?

Yes! Oxford is one of the most famous cities in the UK so whether you live in the UK or you are visiting from abroad it is worth visiting this beautiful and charming city to see the famous sights and things to do in Oxford.

Is Oxford worth visiting for one day?

Yes! Oxford is a vert walkable city therefore it is possible to see a lot of Oxford in just one day. If you arrive to Oxford by train the train station is in the centre so it is easy to walk from the train station around the rest of the city and back again in one day.

I hope you’ve found this list useful and it gives you some ideas on what to do in Oxford!

To book your train ticket to Oxford check out The Train Line here.

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Tilly Jaye Horseman

Friday 15th of February 2019

Found your post on Pinterest when looking for things to do in Oxford - I'm going tomorrow. Not been to Oxford since 2011 so looking forward to it! Think I may head to the Handle Bar Cafe for breakfast - sounds like a great place to start. And would love to go up the church tower for the views! Fingers crossed the weather will be clear enough to make it worthwhile!

TheWanderingQuinn

Saturday 16th of February 2019

Hello Tilly, so glad you found my post, thank you for letting me know! That sounds like the perfect way to start the day! They do a great brunch! And I hope the weather does clear for you!! Enjoy it :)

Margie Miklas

Sunday 9th of September 2018

Love your posts, Ellie. So glad I came across your blog I'm hoping to visit the UK and Oxford soon

Ah thank you so much Margie. I’m so glad you came across my blog and I hope you get to the U.K. soon! :) If you have any other questions just let me know :)

Wednesday 20th of June 2018

I've never been to Oxford before but would love to visit. The coloured houses and stunning architecture are a big draw for me!

How to Travel From London to Oxford by Train, Bus, and Car

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre 

The University of Oxford is famous as one of the most prestigious schools in the world, but the town itself has much more to offer than just this 12th-century college. Oxford is one of the most popular towns to visit from London, since they're separated by less than 60 miles and are easily connected by bus and train. This quaint city makes a great day trip if you need a break from the hectic grind of London, offering visitors another look into English life outside of its largest and capital city.

The train is the most convenient method of transportation from London to Oxford, but this can get pricey unless you buy tickets in advance. The bus takes a little longer, but it's still a quick ride and brings you from city center to city center at an affordable price. It's also a quick drive, but you're better off taking public transit rather than dealing with London traffic and parking.

What Is the Cheapest Way to Get From London to Oxford?

The bus is the cheapest way to get from London to Oxford, with service available via National Express or Oxford Tube starting at roughly $7. Buses leave from both companies all throughout the day, always starting at Victoria Station and arriving in Oxford at Gloucester Green Station. It's recommended to buy tickets online in advance, guaranteeing you a seat on the bus you want. However, tickets can also be purchased directly from the driver and buses leave so frequently that you shouldn't have a problem finding a seat.

What Is the Fastest Way to Get From London to Oxford?

For just a few pounds more than the bus, you can catch a train from Paddington or Marylebone stations in London to Oxford Station. Most travelers would consider the train a more comfortable option than the bus, and it also gets you into Oxford in just under an hour—about 40 minutes faster than the bus. Fares start at roughly $13 for a one-way ticket but get more expensive as the travel date gets closer and tickets sell out, so it pays to make reservations in advance (last-minute tickets usually cost $35 or more). If you're flexible with your travel date and time, look around at different times of the day and a day before and after as well. Trains depart to Oxford about every 15 minutes, so flexibility is crucial for finding the best deals.

How Long Does It Take to Drive?

If you have your own car, driving from London to Oxford takes about an hour and a half in ideal conditions. However, with all of the traffic in London, it can often be much longer. The drive between London and Oxford is a popular commuter route, and rush hour time is especially difficult. Unless you plan on road tripping through other parts of Britain after Oxford, driving yourself isn't likely worth the headache of having your own vehicle. Parking in London and Oxford is expensive and complicated, and you'll also have to pay tolls on this relatively short drive. Oxford is small enough to explore on foot, and you'll be happier if you stick to the train or bus.

When Is the Best Time to Travel to Oxford?

If you're looking for ideal weather, the summer months are without a doubt the best time to visit Oxford. From June to August, expect sunny days and comfortably warm temperatures, perfect for walking around and exploring all that the town has to offer. The summer months are also, unsurprisingly, the high season. The city will be much more crowded with visitors and hotel rooms are more likely to be booked if you plan on spending the night. Winter is cold, windy, and wet, but because of the temperate climate, snow is uncommon. April and May are also a great time to visit, not only because the weather is finally beginning to warm up but because the city hosts all types of events in the spring—such as the Oxford Jazz Festival, Wood Festival, English Music Festival, Chocolate Festival, Oxfordshire Artweeks, and Dorchester-on-Thames Festival.

What Is There to Do in Oxford?

Oxford is a town full of old English charm, perfect for a day trip from London or a relaxing weekend out of the big city. This fascinating city is home to the world's oldest English language university, and many of the colleges are open to the public or offer tours of their historic buildings. Oxford also has one of the world's oldest public museums, the Ashmolean , which is free to enter. Stop for a pint at one of the city's atmospheric pubs, like the Turf Tavern or the Eagle and Child Pub—once frequented by writers such as Tolkein and C.S. Lewis. Fans of the Harry Potter series will come across sites all over the city used in the films, and a Harry Potter walking tour is the best way to find them all.

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Visiting Oxford City

What to expect on a visit to the university city of oxford.

The big draw for most visitors to Oxford is of course the world famous University of Oxford and its colleges, the largest and most famous being Christ Church .

Situated only 55 miles west of Central London, Oxford is an easy day trip independently with frequent bus and coach services.

The River Thames runs through Oxford in the early stages of its flow down to London through the Thames valley. At Oxford, for a distance of some 10 miles, it is known as the Isis.

Today, Oxford is also famously known for its Harry Potter and other literary connections .

Oxford City attractions   Blenheim Palace   Getting to Oxford from London   Oxford and Cambridge Tour  

Oxford City attractions

Most things to see are directly or indirectly associated with the University. Once you have arrived in Oxford the only practical way to get around is to walk, though many of the locals prefer bicycles.

Everything you will want to see is in a compact, well sign-posted central area and it's also easy to pick up a street map to find your way.

Oxford University

As the oldest university in the English-speaking world, Oxford University is an historic institution and the single main draw for visitors to Oxford.

The 38 colleges are spread throughout the city but the oldest and most historic are clustered together in the ancient centre of Oxford.

Christ Church is the largest college and is the single most popular destination with its connections to  Harry Potter  and Lewis Carroll.

BOOK: OXFORD OFFICIAL UNIVERSITY AND CITY TOUR

BOOK: OXFORD HARRY POTTER WALKING TOUR

Bodleian Library

One of the great libraries of the world since the 17th century with every new book published in the UK here. A total of nearly 6 million books clearly needs a great storage area, much of it spreading underground.

Radcliffe Camera

Camera is the medieval name for a room. The earliest example of a round reading room and still in use today as the reading room of the Bodleian Library. Over 600,000 books are stored alone in its underground store. Can be visited by prior arrangement.

University Church of St Mary the Virgin

Historically this is at the heart of the start of the University. Built in the 14th Century, the early colleges started up within and all around this church. The earliest library for example was within the church.

Today the most popular attraction is climbing to the Tower for panoramic views of the City of Oxford.

Museum of History of Science

Home to an unrivaled collection of scientific instruments from medieval times to the 17th century. Its collection of 18th and 19th-century instruments is also substantial. It is the world's oldest surviving purpose-built museum building. Notable exhibits include Einstein's blackboard.

Sheldonian Theatre

The Theatre, built in 1664-9, was the very first work of Sir Christopher Wren. The Theatre is much used today for University occasions, including degree ceremonies.

Oxford covered market

Today Oxford is a regional shopping centre meeting the every day needs of the local population. It is little different to other similar sized cities with the usual chains and mix of retail outlets.

The Covered Market takes you back in time and is worthwhile even if shops aren't your scene. The Covered Market was opened in 1774 and is very atmospheric with a thriving community of stall holders covering a wide range of subjects.

Blackwell’s book shop

Blackwell's main bookshop is comprised of four old shops in Broad Street: Nos. 48, 49, 50, and 51. All four are Grade II listed buildings. The resulting retail shop is a maze to negotiate.

Stocking more than 200,000 titles this is Oxford's largest bookshop. It includes as part of its basement the Norrington room which gained a place in the Guinness Books of Records with the largest single display of books for sale in the world.

Alice's Shop

In Oxford a popular place to visit is the world famous 'Alice's Shop', selling all sorts of Alice related souvenirs. Located just opposite Alice’s childhood home, just across the road from Christ Church College , Alice's Shop is in fact the actual shop where the real life Alice would have gone for her sweets and groceries.

Lewis Carrol wrote the shop into his story Through the Looking-Glass, (the little dark shop run by an old sheep?), and it soon became a place for tourists on the 'Alice trail' to visit. At some point it moved on from being an ordinary grocers to a shop specialising in all things Alice related.

A real gem of a place.

Blenheim Palace

Just a few miles north of Oxford is Blenheim Palace , a World Heritage Site, home of the Duke of Marlborough and birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Frequent public buses run out to Blenheim from Oxford City Centre. Be warned, you can easily spend most of the day here.

Getting to Oxford from London

For a day trip to Oxford from London, its a choice between cheap and frequent bus services operating a 24x7 service or taking the train from London's Paddington Station.

Trains leave broadly every 30 minutes (60 minutes Sunday) and take approximately 60 minutes to perform the journey. The alternative is by the Oxford Tube or Oxford Express coaches from Victoria Coach Station. Scheduled time by bus is 100 minutes, but clearly you are at the mercy of London's traffic. Frequencies are very high, every 10-15 minutes for much of the day and the service is 24 x 7.

Oxford by train

Oxford Station is about ten minutes walk to the west of the city centre. It is on the line for express trains from London Paddington to Hereford via Worcester. It also has local trains to Reading, Worcester and Bicester Town.

For fares and timetables use ' The Trainline ' website where you can also order tickets for delivery to your home address or collection from a self-service ticket machine on the day of travel.

The Oxford Tube bus service from London Victoria

The most popular bus service between Oxford and London is the Oxford Tube bus service. The Oxford Tube buses are large double decker buses that run a 24x7 service from London's Victoria Coach Station.

The buses also pickup at Marble Arch and Notting Hill Gate. In Oxford, the bus terminates at Gloucester Green Bus Station, 5 minutes walk west of the centre. The buses also pick up and drop off in the High Street at Oxford. The buses are air conditioned, have reclining seats and have washrooms on board. The service is true 24x7, with hourly services in the very early hours and frequencies every 10-15 minutes much of the day.

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A Day Trip to Oxford: The Perfect One Day Itinerary

By: Author Laura

Posted on Published: 13th June 2023  - Last updated: 10th February 2024

Categories Oxford , Travel , UK

Planning a day trip to Oxford and want to know what the very best things to do are that you simply cannot miss? This Oxford day trip itinerary shares what to do in Oxford in just 24 hours.

Oxford is one of the UK’s most beautiful cities and it’s the perfect city to visit as a day trip from London. One day in Oxford is just enough time to get a flavour of what this wonderful city has to offer. There’s a great food scene, stunning architecture, and lots of places to explore on an Oxford day trip.

Some things to do in Oxford include visiting the “Harry Potter” college, drinking at J R R Tolkien’s old haunt, exploring the Natural History Museum and more. If you’ve only got 24 hours in Oxford, make sure to check out these top Oxford attractions first.

I’ve also included advice on how to get to Oxford at the very end of this post so make sure to scroll to the bottom before planning your Oxford day trip.

Now let me tell you how to spend one day in Oxford!

Oxford Day Trip Itinerary

How to get to oxford from london, best time to visit oxford, where to stay in oxford.

Breakfast at The Handle Bar Cafe & Kitchen

The first thing to do on an Oxford day trip is grab a filling breakfast. If you’re coming to Oxford on a day trip from London then you’ll either be coming from Gloucester Green bus station or the train station.

The Handle Bar is in the centre of Oxford, just a few minutes away from the bus station and less than ten minutes from the train station. It’s on your way to all the good stuff so it’s the perfect place to start the day.

RELATED: The Best Brunch in Oxford

The Handle Bar is one of my favourite brunch locations in Oxford and where you’ll find the best avocado on toast in the city.

A slice of sourdough bread is topped with a healthy dollop of smashed avocado as well as feta cheese, paprika and chilli. It’s so damn good!

The name hints at this cafe’s unique decor and inside you’ll find a number of bikes hanging from the ceiling as decor. It’s located above a bike shop in a bright, airy space that is a lovely place to start the day.

RELATED: The Best Cafes in Oxford

Address : 28-32, St Michael’s Street, Oxford, OX1 2EB Opening Hours : 8am – 6pm Monday and Tuesday 8am – 11pm Wednesday to Friday 9am – 11pm Saturday 9am – 5pm Sunday Website : www.handlebaroxford.co.uk

Climb University Church of St Mary the Virgin

Now that you’ve fuelled up, it’s time to see just what Oxford is all about. And what better place to see the dreaming spires of Oxford than from the skies?

No, unfortunately, you won’t be going up in a hot air balloon (though Virgin do offer hot air balloon rides over the city!), instead, you’ll be climbing the narrow, windy steps of the University Church of St Mary the Virgin.

That probably doesn’t sound quite so appealing but you’ll thank me when you get to the top and see the amazing view over Oxford. Given that the University Church of St Mary the Virgin is on one side of Radcliffe Square you’ll get a wonderful view of the iconic Radcliffe Camera and the city of dreaming spires from the top.

With only one day in Oxford, you sadly won’t manage to zip around the entire town so a trip up here is a great way to get a wide look at the city.

To your right, you’ll see right into All Souls College, one of Oxford University’s most elusive colleges with only around 10 post-graduate students each year.

Address : High Street, Oxford, OX1 4BJ Opening Hours : 9:30am – 5pm Monday to Saturday; 12pm – 5pm Sunday Price : £5 Website : www.universitychurch.ox.ac.uk/content/opening-times

Admire the Radcliffe Camera

You’ve seen the Radcliffe Camera from the top, now it’s time to get up close and personal. From Radcliffe Square, you’ll be able to walk around this rotund library and appreciate the sheer size of this structure.

It was built in the middle of the eighteenth century and has a neo-classical design. This sandy-coloured stone is iconic of Oxford as most of the university’s buildings are this colour.

The square surrounding it is paved with cobblestones, another typical feature of Oxford, though it’s rather uncomfortable to walk across!

Inside, the library is usually packed with Oxford University students and there are a whopping 600,000 books inside. Impressive stuff!

The only way for tourists to visit the inside is on a 90-minute guided tour and it’s well worth adding this to your Oxford day trip itinerary. More on the Bodleian Library tours below.

This is probably the most popular photo spot in Oxford so make sure you get lots of good pics here!

RELATED: Where to Get the Best Views of the Radcliffe Camera

Address : Radcliffe Square, Oxford, OX1 3BG

Take pictures of the Bridge of Sighs

Less than a minute from the Radcliffe Camera is another iconic Oxford landmark – The Bridge of Sighs. This is a floating passage joining two parts of Hertford College and is named after the Bridge of Sighs in Venice.

Whilst it looks like something from times gone by, this structure is actually much newer than a lot of other parts of Oxford as it was completed in 1914.

Taking pictures of the Bridge of Sighs is an absolute must on any Oxford day trip and if you’re really lucky you might snap a shot of a student cycling through underneath too!

Address : Bridge of Sighs, New College Ln, Oxford OX1 3BL

Go on a tour of the Bodleian Library

Not only are the libraries of Oxford stunning on the outside, but they’re also all stunning on the inside. Whilst the Radcliffe Camera is the iconic symbol of Oxford, the Bodleian Library is actually a group of libraries that are spread across the city.

For a glimpse inside some of the historic reading rooms, you’ll need to book yourself a guided tour. These are very popular and sell out quick so make sure to book this in advance of your day trip to Oxford!

RELATED: Inside 8 of Oxford University’s Most Beautiful Libraries

There are a number of different options available with a 30, 60 and 90-minute tour.

As a book lover, I will, of course, recommend the full 90-minute tour. This includes Radcliffe Camera, Divinity School, Convocation House, Chancellors Court and Duke Humfrey’s Library.

If you’re only here for Oxford’s Harry Potter filming locations then the 30-minute tour will suffice.

This consists of just the Divinity School and Duke Humfrey’s Library. The former served as the hospital wing at Hogwarts and the latter was the restricted section of Hogwarts library.

RELATED: A Guide to Harry Potter in Oxford

Address : Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 3BG Price: £6-15 Website : https://visit.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/tours/tours-for-individuals

Grab a Bite to Eat

If you’re visiting Oxford in the summer then the Vaults & Garden is the perfect place for lunch as they have outdoor seating with amazing views of the Radcliffe Camera. You can order your food inside then bring it out on a cute, floral tray to enjoy your meal in the sunshine.

The menu is short and sweet and varies on a day-to-day basis since the ingredients are delivered fresh each day. There’s slow-roasted lamb shoulder or Oxford cheese rarebit, for example. It’s also vegetarian and vegan-friendly. Check out the menu for yourself here .

RELATED: Things to Do in Oxford in the Summer

Address : University Church, 1 Radcliffe Square, Oxford, OX1 4AH Opening Hours : 8am – 6pm every day Website : www.thevaultsandgarden.com

If you’re visiting in the winter then I’d recommend visiting Quod instead. It’s just a few minutes away on the main high street and is one of Oxford’s more luxurious restaurants.

However, on weekdays you can enjoy a set course at this wonderful restaurant for just £19.95 for 2 courses or £23.95 for 3 courses.

No 1 Ship Street is also close by with a lunch set menu from Monday to Saturday.

For something more casual, pop back to the Covered Market for a variety of different sit-down and takeaway food options.

RELATED: Best Cafes in Oxford

It’s quite a large space but it is also very popular with students and locals alike so you may find that it’s quite busy at lunchtime. Fortunately, you can easily book a table online via Open Table .

Address : 16-17 Turl Street, Oxford, OX1 3DH Opening Hours : 8am – 4pm every day

Browse the Covered Market

After lunch, have a wander through Oxford’s covered market. It’s full of small, independent shops and you may find a cool souvenir or two. It’s a labyrinth of shops and you never know what you might find so just explore!

With a local florist, butchers, fruitmongers and more, the Oxford Covered Market feels like a slice of time gone by. You’ll also find leather crafts, homemade cakes and other trinkets worth browsing.

And if you’ve still got room after lunch, pick up a gloriously gooey cookie from Ben’s Cookies or a super sweet milkshake from MooMoo’s Milkshake, also in the covered market.

Address : Market Street, Oxford, OX1 3DZ Opening Hours : 8am-5:30pm Monday to Friday; 8am-6pm Saturday; 10am-5pm Sunday Website : oxford-coveredmarket.co.uk

Visit Christ Church, Oxford

Now it’s time to go on a tour of one of the best Oxford colleges . Christ Church is one of the most famous colleges and is very popular with tourists because it’s home to a number of Harry Potter filming locations. The Great Hall in the Harry Potter films was modelled on the Great Hall at Christ Church, where students dine every evening.

What’s more, the steps leading up to said dining hall were used in the first Harry Potter film. You may remember that McGonagall stands tapping her fingers at the top of a flight of stone stairs whilst she awaits the arrival of the new students. That’s these very stairs!

Check out my free self-guided Harry Potter Oxford tour for more information on these filming locations.

However, there’s more to Christ Church than Harry Potter. For book lovers, this college is also where Lewis Carroll first met the real-life Alice in Wonderland.

There’s also Oxford’s (only) cathedral hidden away in this college. The front quad is one of the largest quadrangles in Europe. You’ll have to visit to find out all the secrets of Christ Church!

RELATED: The Best and Most Beautiful Oxford Colleges

If you’ve got time, check out Christ Church Meadow too. It’s a huge patch of green taking you all the way down to the river and makes for a wonderful walk. If you’re lucky, you may even see some Oxford rowers out on the water!

Address : St Aldates, Oxford, OX1 1DP Price : £15 Opening Hours : 10am – 5pm Monday to Saturday, 2pm – 5pm Sundays Website : https://www.chch.ox.ac.uk/plan-your-visit/

Explore the Museum of Natural History

The Ashmolean is an amazing museum, no doubt about it. But if you’re only in Oxford for one day, then my personal recommendation would be to visit the Oxford University Museum of Natural History instead. It’s much smaller but full of intriguing exhibits.

It’s a beautiful neo-gothic building but if you think the outside is impressive, just wait until you step inside!

The skeleton parade is eerily beautiful and one of my favourite photo spots in Oxford. This a small but fascinating collection of animal skeletons which are displayed along the length of the museum.

Another one of my favourite things to see here is the Dodo. Yes, that mythical bird from Alice in Wonderland was once real.

In fact, the specimen here supposedly has just enough matter on it for scientists to be able to one day recreate the Dodo and maybe bring it back from extinction! Pretty cool, huh?

RELATED: A Guide to Alice in Wonderland in Oxford

If you head towards the back of the museum, you’ll find that there’s actually another museum hidden inside the museum.

This is the Pitt Rivers Museum, which has to be one of the unique places to see in Oxford. There are over 600,000 objects in this space, which come from just about every corner of the world! Look out for the shrunken heads.

Yes, the shrunken heads.

RELATED: The Best Free Things to Do in Oxford

Address: Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PW Price: FREE Opening hours : 10am-5pm every day Website : www.oumnh.ox.ac.uk

Have Dinner at The Rickety Press

The Rickety Press is one of my favourite places to eat in Oxford and I always try to pop in for either brunch, lunch or dinner when I’m in this city. It’s the place to go for pizzas and burgers in Oxford.

The burgers are oh so juicy and you can get an enormous portion of fries on the side. As for the pizzas, the dough is just amazing. I always buy the dip for £1 extra just for the dough.

There’s a range of seating from intimate booths to tables for two or even a large table for groups. No matter who you’re dining with, the Rickety Press is a great option in Oxford.

There’s usually a great atmosphere inside in the evenings with lots of drinks on offer and the staff are great too.

What’s more, there are some great offers here throughout the week. On Mondays, there are half-price burgers all day and the pizzas are half price at lunchtime from Tuesday to Friday! Dreamy.

Looking for something a little fancier? Head to Gee’s instead.

Address : 67 Cranham St, Oxford, OX2 6DE Opening Hours : 9am – 11pm every day (12am Friday/Saturday) Website : dodopubs.com/locations/the-rickety-press

Grab a pint at a traditional Oxford pub

Normally I’d recommend the historic Eagle & Child pub without reservation. But unfortunately, that pub is temporarily closed as it seeks to raise funds for a refurbishment.

Instead, check out The Bear, a tiny, cosy little pub nestled behind Christ Church, Turf Tavern, a favourite amongst film crews who have graced Oxford, or the King’s Arms, for both indoor and outdoor seating. If cocktails are more your thing, I’d recommend House Bar behind Christ Church.

More about the Eagle & Child:

There are so many wonderful pubs in Oxford. Almost as many as there are cafes in Oxford . However, one of my favourites will always be the Eagle & Child on St Giles’ because of its literary history.

You may have heard of authors Lewis Caroll and J R R Tolkien. They were part of a literary circle called “The Inklings” where they would share their work with like-minded individuals and critique each others’ writing.  

In fact, it was at one of these meetings that C S Lewis first handed out the proofs for  The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe !

The Inklings used to gather at the Eagle & Child on Tuesdays at midday but I’d recommend saving this stop for the end of your Oxford day trip. You deserve a pint after all that exploring and can really sit back and relax!

This pub is only a 7-minute walk from Gloucester Green bus station and a 14-minute walk from Oxford train station so you’re well placed to make the journey home after a jam-packed day trip to Oxford!

RELATED: Things to do in Oxford in the Evening

Address : 49 St Giles’, Oxford OX1 3LU Opening Hours : 11am – 11pm every day (closes 10:30pm Sundays) Website : www.nicholsonspubs.co.uk

I hope you find my Oxford day trip itinerary helpful and you have a wonderful day in the city of dreaming spires! If you’d prefer to explore the city on a guided tour then you can go on a walking tour of Oxford, such as one of the below.

Getting from London to Oxford couldn’t be easier and either the train, bus or car are all very convenient routes.

By Train 

There are regular trains from London Paddington to Oxford. The station is a little way out of the city centre but you can then take a bus or walk into town. Book via the Trainline  for the cheapest tickets.

The Oxford Tube is a super convenient and cheap bus service that’ll take you from the centre of London straight into the heart of Oxford. If you’re taking this route, I’d recommend getting off at the High Street so that you can walk to Radcliffe Square in just 3 minutes. 

Oxford is only an hour / hour and a half drive from the centre of London. It’s a very easy drive down via the M4, M25, M40 and A roads.

Oxford is a university town and is therefore much busier during term times. Oxford University terms are very short and only last eight weeks.

The autumn term, known as Michaelmas, usually stretches from early October to early December. The spring term, known as Hilary, usually stretches from mid-January to mid-March. The summer term, known as Trinity, usually stretches from the end of April to mid-June.

If you want to visit Oxford when it is quieter, you may wish to avoid going on an Oxford day trip during Oxford University term times. You may also find that more things are open whilst the students aren’t there as some sites may have restricted hours for tourists during term time.

That said, if you are keen to catch glimpses of Oxford University student life, you may prefer to visit whilst the city is filled with students. If you manage to figure out what dates matriculation or graduation are on, you may even spot the students wandering around in their big black gowns.

Personally, I would visit when the students aren’t around, but it’s really up to you!

In terms of which season to visit Oxford in, as with most of England, the summers are much, much more pleasant. Summers in Oxford are glorious with freshly mown lawns, sunny outdoor spaces and the option to go punting.

If you liked this post, check out these: Best Brunch in Oxford Coffeeshops and Cafes in Oxford Free Things to Do in Oxford Things to Do in Summer in Oxford Things to Do in the Evening in Oxford Bookshops in Oxford Best Oxford Colleges to Visit Harry Potter in Oxford Alice in Wonderland in Oxford Saltburn Filming Locations in Oxford

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Friday 11th of December 2020

As someone who has been living in Oxford since 2014 and who is a newbie blogger, I cannot tell you how excited I am to find you and this post! Love this! -Elizabeth xx

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Tuesday 4th of February 2020

This makes me miss Oxford! Can't wait to be back there!

Oxford Travel Guide (Practical tips, itinerary + map)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: December 6, 2022

Our Oxford Travel Guide includes recommended places to visit and things to do, accommodation options, tips and more for one of the most famous university cities in the world. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to Oxford!

Plan your visit to Oxford

Located only 60 miles (90 km) north-west of London in the county of Oxfordshire is the city of Oxford, home to arguably the world’s most famous and prestigious university.

Nicknamed the ‘City of Dreaming Spires” Oxford is a compact city with many of its main sights situated close to each other.

Oxford is one of England’s most beautiful cities and a popular day trip from London easily reached by train from the capital. Plan to spend the day exploring the University’s famous colleges, magnificent medieval buildings & museums.

What you will find in this complete Oxford Travel Guide

Map of Oxford

When is the best time of year to visit oxford, how many days do you need in oxford, what is the best way to explore oxford, which city should i visit – oxford or cambridge, by train from london, by car from london, take a tour from london to oxford, attractions and things to do in oxford and the surrounding area, accommodation in oxford, tickets, tours & attractions in oxford, best day trips from oxford, books to read before visiting oxford, enjoy your visit to oxford.

Oxford travel guide – Visiting Oxford FAQ’s

Oxford is a beautiful destination whatever time of year you plan to visit.

The summer months are busy with visitors from the UK and abroad flocking to explore the sights.

If you plan to stay in Oxford we recommend booking accommodation in advance during peak season.

During the winter Oxford is quieter but a truly magical experience when frost or snow covers the city.

Spring heralds in blossom-covered trees and colourful flowers across the city whilst visitors during the Autumn will be greeted by multi-coloured leaf displays of golds and reds. Oxford is simply stunning whenever you choose to visit.

It is possible to see the main sights and attractions of Oxford in a day but if you are an art or history lover we recommend 2 days to fully explore the cities museums and colleges.

Oxford is also a great base for further exploration of Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds by car or tour.

The historic centre of Oxford is easy to explore on foot. Alternatively consider buying tickets on the Oxford hop-on-hop-off bus tour and enjoy unlimited hop-on hop-off for 24 or 48 hours.

I would say visit both if you can fit them into your itinerary. Both cities have their own unique charms.

Oxford is the larger city and has lots of things to see and do so could easily fill 2 days if you wish to explore all its colleges and museums. It is also the perfect destination to visit if you are considering a road trip to the Cotswolds. If you are a Harry Potter fan head to Oxford where you will find several film locations used in a number of the movies.

Cambridge is a smaller city than Oxford. There is less to do and see but it is a beautiful and easy city to explore in a day and well worth visiting. Enjoy a stroll along the river Cam, try punting, and enjoy the cities stunning architecture. Read more about Cambridge in my Cambridge Travel Guide .

As I have mentioned both cities are doable day trips from London by train. If you only have one day and want to see both cities take this Oxford & Cambridge Day Tour from London .

What is the best way to travel to Oxford from London?

Oxford is an easy day trip from London but with so much to do and see it is worth considering spending a few days there to fully appreciate the city.

It is also the perfect base for exploring the beautiful Cotswolds . The UNESCO World Heritage listed Blenheim Palace is also close to Oxford.

For timetables and tickets, we recommend the trainline . Take the train to Oxford for the day or incorporate it into your UK train travel itinerary.

Tip – If this is your first time catching a train in the UK read our complete guide to UK train travel which includes all the information you need to know to make travelling around the UK by rail a relaxing and stress-free experience.

• Distance from London: 52 miles / 83 km
• Time taken by train: 1 hour
• Leave from: London Paddington/ London Marylebone

Although located only 54 miles and an hour drive from London I recommend taking the train! Oxford is one of the least car-friendly cities in the UK and it is not worth the hassle if you can avoid it.

If you are planning to visit Oxford as part of a UK road trip and it is your first destination after London I recommend travelling to Oxford by train and picking up a rental car at the station.

If you are travelling to Oxford by car from other UK destinations note that car parking in the city centre is limited and expensive. 5 Park and Ride sites are available if you plan to visit for the day but do take into consideration the additional time you will need. Alternatively, if you plan to stay for longer book accommodation which includes parking.

There are many day tours available which include Oxford in their itinerary. If you are pushed for time we recommend considering booking a tour from London to see the highlights of the city.

• Day Trip to Highclere Castle and Oxford – Relive scenes from Downton Abbey at Highclere Castle, set in 1000 acres of beautiful countryside, followed by a visit to the university city of Oxford.
• Oxford and Cotswolds Villages Day Trip – Escape the hustle and bustle of London and spend the day exploring the historic city of Oxford and the traditional stone villages of the Cotswolds. Travel in comfort through the countryside on a small group tour with a knowledgeable guide.
• Harry Potter Studio Tour & Oxford Day Tour from London – Depart London for a magical day out on the Warner Bros. Studio Tour–The Making of Harry Potter, followed by a visit to the University of Oxford. The full-day trip includes admission to the studio tour and a professional guided walk in Oxford.
• Warwick Castle, Stratford, Oxford & Cotswolds Day Trip – Discover Oxford on a guided walking tour from London. Visit Stratford-upon-Avon to see William Shakespeare’s birthplace as well as his schoolroom and guildhall. Explore inside Warwick Castle.

Click the links for more information about the best things to do in Oxford plus places we recommend visiting in the surrounding area.

ONE DAY IN OXFORD ITINERARY – BEST THINGS TO SEE AND DO

COTSWOLDS TRAVEL GUIDE

VISITING BLENHEIM PALACE

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN OXFORD

Find more special stays in my Accommodation Guide for England.

There are numerous walking tours of Oxford available. Choose the tour that interests you the most – for fans of Inspector Morse and Harry Potter there are excellent themed tours available.

If you prefer to tour the city with a university graduate this is also possible and a great way to learn about life for students at this hallowed university.

• University and City Walking Tour with Alumni Guide – Learn about life at the prestigious university from your student guide. This tour is also available as a private walking tour if you prefer to customise your tour.
• Making of Harry Potter Tour – Explore Oxford through the eyes of Harry Potter and other characters from the Harry Potter movies on a 1.5 to 2-hour tour. Discover how student life at Hogwarts compares with an Oxford education. Test your knowledge with a Potter-mania quiz.
• Morse, Lewis and Endeavour Walking Tour of Oxford – Follow in the footsteps of the fictional Inspector Morse and his sidekick Lewis on a TV locations tour of Oxford. See sites from the books and TV shows created by the author Colin Dexter.
• Private Punting Trip with Optional Walking Tour – Enjoy a relaxing 1-hour outing on the river and learn all about Oxford university, student life, and its proud rowing traditions. Have the option to also add on a guided walking tour afterward.

Oxford is the perfect base for day trips to surrounding areas including the Cotswolds and UNESCO World Heritage Site of Blenheim Palace.

I have handpicked the best tours available from Oxford through Get Your Guide (we book most of our day tours and organised activities through Get Your Guide due to their great customer service and cancellation policy)

• Cotswold Explorer Full-Day Tour – Take an unforgettable drive through the glorious Cotswolds, visiting sleepy stone villages, hidden valleys, and breathtaking scenery. Enjoy hearing the history and stories of the old wool and market towns and browsing in the quirky shops and cafes.
• Cotswolds & Blenheim Palace Small-Group Tour – Meander through the quaint villages of Burford and Bourton-on-the-Water, and explore the rich history of Blenheim Palace.
• Blenheim Palace Guided Tour – Enjoy a guided tour of one of England’s most famous palaces and gardens and home to the Churchill family and Duke of Marlborough. Learn about the events which led to the creation of Blenheim Palace. Enjoy a private tour for a maximum of 4 persons.

Oxford is proud of its literary heritage and connections with many famous authors who have studied or taught at one of its colleges. To fully appreciate and enjoy your visit to Oxford we recommend reading some of their works.

These include

• Lewis Carroll
• Oscar Wilde
• JRR Tolkien
• John Betjeman
• Philip Pullman

This guide will have provided inspiration plus practical information to help plan your visit to Oxford. You will find more inspiration and ideas to help plan your travels around England in these travel guides:

• Devon Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)
• Liverpool Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary & map)
• York Travel Guide (including essential travel tips, itinerary + map)
• Peak District Travel Guide
• Lake District Travel Guide
• 10 virtual tours of famous landmarks in the UK

Looking for more inspiration for your travels in England? Check out my England Travel Planning Guide which has lots of ideas, tips and resources to plan your itinerary.

Enter a search term or a page code from the guide.

How to Get to Oxford from London

Oxford is one of the most popular Day Trip destinations for those visiting London and making the trip from London to Oxford is straightforward and pleasant, offering a variety of transport methods to cater to everyone’s preferences. These are all the options available right now to go to Oxford from central London:

Related Articles:

• Best Day Trips from London
• Oxford Guide: an Amazing Day Trip from London

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London to Oxford by Train

Traveling by train from London to Oxford is a smooth and popular option. Trains frequently depart from London Paddington station and sometimes from London Marylebone , offering direct services that usually take about an hour. It’s advisable to check the latest schedules and ticket prices on national rail websites or train service providers like Great Western Railway , which operates many of these routes.

These train journeys provide a comfortable and scenic approach to exploring Oxford, allowing you to relax and enjoy the English countryside en route to the historic university city. Booking in advance can often secure you the best fares.

Bus to Oxford from London

Traveling by bus from London to Oxford is a convenient and budget-friendly option. Here’s how you can make the journey:

The Oxford Tube provides a 24/7 bus service between London and Oxford, departing from Victoria Coach Station, with stops at Marble Arch, Notting Hill Gate, and Shepherd’s Bush. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours and features amenities like free WiFi and power sockets. Tickets can be purchased online or from the driver, with no reservation required.

Update: The X90 bus service from London to Oxford has been discontinued. Previously, it offered a direct and cost-effective travel option similar to the Oxford Tube, connecting central London locations with Oxford. For current travel between these cities by bus, the Oxford Tube remains a reliable and frequent service, providing round-the-clock connections with onboard amenities such as free WiFi and power sockets.

Driving to Oxford from London

Driving from London to Oxford typically involves taking the A40 west out of London, followed by the M40 motorway. The journey usually takes around 1.5 hours, but can vary depending on traffic conditions. Once in Oxford, parking can be challenging and expensive in the city center, so utilizing one of the several Park and Ride services located on the outskirts is a practical solution. These offer parking and easy bus access to the city.

Guided Tours from London to Oxford

Embarking on a guided tour from London to the storied city of Oxford presents a seamless and enlightening journey. With transportation included, these Tours eliminate any travel concerns, allowing you to immerse fully in the experience. Each tour is thoughtfully curated to showcase the illustrious history, world-renowned university, and stunning architecture that define Oxford. Beyond the city itself, many tours extend their explorations to encompass the enchanting Cotswolds or the historic Stratford-upon-Avon, enriching the excursion with visits to areas of significant beauty and cultural importance. This blend of convenience, education, and beauty makes for an unforgettable adventure into the heart of England’s heritage. These are some of the most popular tours:

My Day Trip to Oxford from London

Recently, I embarked on a guided tour from London, venturing to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Oxford —a day packed with discovery.

Starting at Victoria Station, we boarded a cozy bus, first heading to Windsor. Here, amidst ancient walls and regal splendor, an audioguide brought the castle’s storied past to life. Our next stop was Stonehenge, where en route, our guide peppered the journey with fascinating tidbits about England. With audioguides in hand, we marveled at the prehistoric stones. The day concluded in Oxford with an insightful walking tour, followed by some free time to wander and soak in more sights.

This trip was a highlight, a perfect blend of history and exploration I highly recommend to anyone visiting the capital.

Day trip to Windsor, Stonehenge & Oxford

How long does it take to travel from London to Oxford?

The journey time varies by mode of transport: trains can take around an hour, buses approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, and driving might take around 1.5 hours, traffic permitting

Is a day trip from London to Oxford worth it?

A day trip from London to Oxford is highly rewarding. Oxford’s blend of historic charm, prestigious university atmosphere, and rich cultural offerings makes it a must-visit. Accessible within a short journey from London, it’s perfect for exploring iconic colleges, the Bodleian Library, and the Ashmolean Museum on foot. Oxford’s “dreaming spires” and vibrant academic life provide a unique and enriching experience, making every visit memorable. Ideal for history buffs, literature enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a taste of quintessential England in just one day.

What are the best ways to travel from London to Oxford for a day trip?

Trains offer a quick and scenic route, while buses like the Oxford Tube provide a cost-effective option with free WiFi. Driving offers flexibility but consider using Park and Ride services due to limited parking in Oxford.

Are there guided tours available that include transportation from London?

Yes, there are numerous guided tours available that include transportation from London, providing a hassle-free way to explore Oxford’s history and architecture, often with added visits to places like the Cotswolds or Stratford-upon-Avon.

Best Day Trips from London – Your Complete Guide in 2024

A Trip to Oxford from London – Exploring Academic Elegance

I love traveling in Europe and I am passionate about writing about my travels. The cultural peculiarities of each region always fascinate me. I enjoy exploring and discovering the best-kept secrets of each town or village. I love road trips as much as city breaks; I love visiting an art gallery and also the magic of musicals or discovering new delicacies in a street market. In this blog, I write about all my travel adventures and my best tips and tricks! Auf Loving Travel schreibe ich über alle meine Reiseerlebnisse und gebe euch meine besten Tipps und Tricks!

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Your Best 2-Day Oxford Itinerary from London

Are you looking for a fun-filled day trip from London? Oxford is a famous city located just one-hour northwest of England’s capital. Being home to one of the most prestigious universities globally, a filming location for the Harry Potter movie series, and medieval architecture, there’s your perfect 2-day Oxford itinerary from London. 

This is a guest post by Vanessa Gordon, the CEO and Publisher of East End Taste Magazine, a digital lifestyle publication based in the Hamptons. Vanessa is also the Founder of the Hamptons Interactive Brunch. She has been featured and quoted in top-tier national media outlets, including Condé Nast Traveler, The Daily Beast, Reader’s Digest, Parents Magazine, and many more.

Oxford was initially established over one thousand years ago, with the university being founded in or around the 11th century. The city is nicknamed ‘the cycling city’ as many residents cycle to and from their destinations. Punting is another favorite activity among Oxford students and tourists. Punting is when you glide along the river in a wooden boat while navigating with a long wooden pole. 

While in Oxford, you will love exploring the unique college campuses that comprise the university, the shopping and dining scene, as well as Oxford’s surrounding towns, including one on the edge of the Cotswolds. You will also be amazed at how easy it is to navigate this historic architectural city. Because of this, Oxford makes one of the popular day trips from London by train , but staying here longer gives you much more flexibility.

• Best Time : May-July or during the Christmas Season (December)
• How Many Days : 1-2 full days
• Getting Around : Walking, Cycling, Bus or Taxi. Cycling and bus are the main public transport. 
• Daily Budget : Accommodations : $20+ for hostels and midrange hotels; Food : $15-25; Transportation : $4-20, including to nearby/surrounding towns

This post includes affiliate links to products, which earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps to fund my blog and bring more authentic articles to you 🙂   Learn more

Getting to Oxford from London

The train from London is the easiest, fastest, and most direct method of arriving in Oxford. If you wish to rent a car to drive , it could take up to two hours, depending on traffic. The cheapest route to note is by bus from Victoria Coach Station . 

There are two train stations you can depart for Oxford from London. These are London Marylebone Station and Paddington Station.

Some prefer departing from Paddington Station and returning via London Marylebone Station if you decide to visit Bicester Village at the end of your two-day Oxford itinerary. 

You may purchase a single or round-trip ride easily in advance online. The train ride takes 45 minutes to one hour, depending on the peak or off-peak schedule. 

Important note : make sure you stop at ‘Oxford’ instead of Oxford Parkway Station if you want to go sightseeing. 

→ Check train tickets from London to Oxford .

Oxford Itinerary – Day One

Become acquainted at the visitor information centre, broad street.

If you wish to become more acquainted with the city of Oxford instead of jumping right into your Oxford itinerary, head to the Visitor Information Centre tucked away on Broad Street.

Broad Street is one of the main streets you will explore on your trip. The Information Centre can answer your questions, look at a map, and purchase souvenirs. 

If you wish to purchase University of Oxford authentic apparel and souvenirs, head to the Oxford University Press Bookshop on High Street, diagonally across St. Edmund’s College. Head here after completing your itinerary so you do not carry too many items with you throughout your trip to Oxford. 

College students, alumni, and professors receive 10% off merchandise and accessories.  Recommend souvenirs : official Oxford Teddy bear, the Cityscape Mug, and Leather Stacking Bracelet. 

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Participate in a Walking Tour of Oxford

Next on your Oxford itinerary should be the Walking Tours that typically begin (and end) at the Visitors Centre and are best organized with the Centre. Explore the famous colleges that comprise the University of Oxford, including Trinity College, Christ Church, Blackfriars, and many others. 

You will also pass Radcliffe Camera and the famous Bridge of Sighs or Hertford Bridge nearby. Both are a must-stop for photos, and it always seems you can never get enough images! 

Tours typically take you through the Covered Market, home to several shops and eateries. Stop at Moos for delicious milkshakes. Remember, the tour moves fast, so grab your food either before or right after the tour. Once the shops close, they are closed! Although you may have been waiting in line for twenty minutes, it would not matter, unfortunately. 

Walking tours in Oxford take approximately two hours. If you are a Harry Potter fan, one of the things to do in Oxford is to take the Harry Potter tour separately . You may recognize some of the scenes filmed at the colleges, including Christ Church. 

Punting on the River

After your walking tour, if you have the energy and want to work up an appetite for lunch, one of the fun things to do in Oxford is to go punting along the River Cherwell beginning off of Magdalen Bridge Boathouse. 

What is punting? Punting is standing up at the back of a wooden boat, holding a long pole, and navigating the boat along the river. It is quite relaxing, and you are certainly up for a very memorable time! Oxford River Cruises offers river journeys upstream of the city as an alternative. 

 Lunch at Victors

Victors is a fun, photogenic spot for lunch located at the Westgate, a new shopping mall also home to a new, upscale movie theatre. 

The interior dazzles with wisteria vines, and it is a Hamptons-inspired restaurant, so you know it exudes colorful, healthy, and over-the-top dishes. Highlights include their sushi platters, poke, and superfood salads.

Begin your experience with Victors Bites, such as Fried Halloumi, Houmous, and Green Olives. They offer a variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, and tempura that are perfect for sharing. 

Small Plates to share are the Crab & Yuzu Tacos, Seared Scallops, Popcorn Chicken, Sea Bass, and Scallop Ceviche. 

Desserts are dazzling on the plates at Victors. Sweeten your Oxford itinerary by tasting their wide variety of desserts. Many’s favorites are Pistachio Cheesecake, Raspberry Baked Alaska, and Caramel Banana Cake with flowers. 

Victors also offer afternoon tea, a Sunday roast, a pizzette menu, and a brunch menu. 

Stay at The Bear Hotel, Woodstock

Call a taxi or Uber to take you to your hotel. The Bear is a historic hotel in Woodstock, about a twenty-minute drive away from central Oxford. 

Originally a coaching inn, The Bear Hotel in Woodstock is set on the scenic edge of the Cotswolds and around the bend from Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. The hotel is family-friendly, and the staff is among the most gracious and hospitable individuals. 

The hotel is one of the UK’s distinguished Macdonald Hotels & Resorts . The hotel is also famously known for hosting Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. 

As you settle in, have a cup of tea, reread, and review your Oxford itinerary for your evening and second day ahead.

Throughout your stay, there is fresh fruit available in the lobby. Make sure to grab some before you head about your day. 

→ Want a different hotel in Oxford? Check out the best, most stylish, and most charming Oxford hotels .

Walk to Blenheim Palace

Exit the front entrance of The Bear, turn left, and walk just down the road, and you will soon come to the entrance of Blenheim Palace, a must-include landmark in your Oxford itinerary.

Of course, the most beautiful time to visit Blenheim Palace is during the Christmas season, when they put on a stunningly magical Christmas exhibit along with the outdoor Great Court Christmas Market, Illuminated Light Trail, and fairground rides. Two years ago, Blenheim put on Alice in the Palace, where there was another magical surprise from the Rabbit Hole to Unbirthday grand display around every corner.

During the warmer months, you can easily spend hours walking around and photographing the breathtaking property.  

Dinner at The Bear Hotel

Chef James Mearing is at the helm of the kitchen and creates artistic dishes like Rabbit Saddle with tarragon mousse and charred sweet corn; Beetroot with goats curd, fig, and preserved lemon; Halibut with squid ink, tagliatelle, brown shrimp, and broccoli; and Cauliflower Steak with Romanesco and almond.

The beetroot, in particular, had the most beautiful presentation. Note the menu rotates with the season. Food and drink promotions and specialty menus happen throughout the year. 

The Churchill Lounge is also on the second floor, serving afternoon tea. You can also visit the Lounge for afternoon coffee, snacks, and cocktails. Full bar service is available, and it is open from 11 am-11 pm daily.

Oxford Itinerary – Day Two

Breakfast at the bear hotel.

Breakfast is served each morning in the dining room on the hotel’s main level. Breakfast includes a cold selection of cereal, fruit, bread, pastries,  delicious scones , milk, and juice. There is also a selection of main dishes like porridge and omelets. 

After breakfast, perhaps you may want to walk around the Blenheim Palace grounds. The grounds make for the perfect jogging or walking path to give yourself a boost of energy for the day ahead. 

The bus is the most convenient and cheapest method for getting back to the city of Oxford. Pick up the bus just a few short steps away from The Bear Hotel. 

The #7 bus route takes between 33 and 42 minutes, depending upon the time of day. Alternatively, a taxi takes approximately 20 minutes. The cost of the bus one way is only 1 GBP. 

Tour the Oxford Artisan Distillery

Meet their minibus that will take you to The Oxford Artisan Distillery outside of Hertford Bridge, or coordinate your pickup directly with the Distillery. 

Your behind-the-scenes tour will showcase how their vodka, gin, and rye whiskey is made ‘from seed to still,’ beginning with a brief presentation. At the end of your tour, you have the opportunity to sample some of their craft gins, vodka, and Pure Rye Spirit. The tour lasts approximately 60 minutes and is currently priced at 20 GBP per person. 

Purchase some of the signature spirits to bring back home. The Oxford Rye Dry Gin is one of their best sellers, or buy their Gin Sampler Collection. They offer free delivery to the UK mainland. 

Visit Ashmolean Museum

Return back to the center of Oxford and head to one of the most famous museums in the city. Ashmolean, located on Beaumont Street, originally opened in 1678 and was the first university museum. Inside, you will discover a wide range of archeological artifacts and a collection of artwork. Notable pieces of artwork, including drawings by Leonardo da Vinci. 

The museum also has a number of rotating exhibitions, events, and members-only programs. 

If you are feeling hungry during your visit, the museum has an onsite restaurant and café on its rooftop. It is also a lovely spot for afternoon tea. The café is open daily beginning at 10 am. Afternoon tea is served Thursdays-Sundays. 

As an added perk, visit the museum as part of your Oxford itinerary free of charge! 

Late Lunch or Early Dinner at Gee’s

As you wrap up your Oxford itinerary, head to Gee’s Restaurant and Bar for a conservatory-style late lunch or early dinner. Gee’s is located on the outskirts of Oxford on Banbury Road. 

Their menu offers a unique rustic Mediterranean dining experience set in a Victorian glasshouse. Their menus rotate with the season and are inspired by regions in Italy and Spain. You will also have much fun photographing your dishes and meal spread here. 

Our favorite dishes are the Sweet Potato & Oregano Risotto, Burrata, Fillet of Cod, and their Wood-Fired Courgettes side dish. Their cocktail menu is also a lot of fun, especially the Cinnamon Appletini – great to sip on after a long day of exploring Oxford. 

You must try their Walnut Ice Cream paired with their Apple & Pear Crumble with Custard on their pudding or dessert menu. 

Optional: Shopping at Bicester Village

Gee’s is conveniently located steps away from a bus stop. Look out for the Stagecoach Oxfordshire, and be sure to ask the restaurant for a bus route map/timetable. The locals are very friendly and will most often be able to guide you to which bus you should take.

Bicester Village is one of my favorite outlet centers in the world. Shops include Burberry, Gucci, Alexander McQueen, Mulberry, Temperley London, and many others. 

Remember that certain credit card holders earn certain points and perks while shopping at the outlet. In addition, ask The Bear Hotel for a 10% coupon for your shopping spree at Bicester Village. Or, look for the QR code at the front desk. 

Train Ride back to London from Oxford

Walk directly across the outlet center towards the train station from Bicester Village. That train will take you directly to Marylebone Station in London. The train ride takes between one hour and one hour and twenty minutes. 

Alternatively, take the train directly to Paddington or Marylebone Station to get straight from Oxford to London. The London Tube is located within Paddington Station, whereas you have to walk a couple of blocks outside Marylebone Station to reach the Tube.  Buy tickets here

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How to Plan a Day Trip to Stonehenge and Oxford from London

I f you are spending a week in London , you will have time to take at least one or more day trips to see more of England. There are many destination options such as Bath , the Cotswolds , Stonehenge, and Oxford. Some are easily accessible by train, such as Bath or Oxford, but to combine destinations, you can either rent a car, take a coach bus tour, or hire a private driver guide.

In this guide, I’ll show you how to take a day trip to Stonehenge and Oxford from London, and what to do while you are there.

Since we had our hearts set on seeing both Stonehenge and Oxford on our day trip, a bus trip was out of the question. Not that I would recommend a bus trip with a family anyway, but they are cost-effective. Unfortunately all the bus trips usually add in another spot like Windsor Castle — nothing was exactly what we wanted.

Also, after driving on the left in Ireland , I wasn’t excited about the prospect of driving through the English countryside on this trip. And there was no way I wanted to attempt to drive within London.

I scoured the Internet for hours looking for an option until we eventually decided it would be worth it to book a private tour to provide us with exactly the trip we were looking for. I wanted to make sure we included a Harry Potter tour on our Oxford day trip, since we were planning the ultimate London trip for Harry Potter fans .

But I also wanted someone that could explain Stonehenge’s rich history to us, versus just exploring the world’s most famous stone circle on our own. I found just what I was looking for with British Tours .

StoneHenge and Oxford Day Trip from London

British Tours offered me a media rate for purposes of this review. All opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

Day Trip to Stonehenge Tour

Located about 1.5 hours from London, a Stonehenge day trip is one of the most popular for families. There is just something about those mysterious prehistoric stones that fascinates kids and adults alike — especially families like ours that have a special interest in sci-fi and fantasy. After all, isn’t it fun to imagine that those stones were placed there by aliens? (But don’t worry, they weren’t.)

If you are visiting Stonehenge on your own, you will want to spend some time in the visitor center to understand its history. You will park at the visitor center up the road and then take a shuttle over to the stone circle. You can no longer walk right up and touch the stones, as barriers have been erected to preserve this historical site.

Our driver-guide Michael from British Tours filled us in on the history of Stonehenge on the ride up from London. We don’t really know the purpose of the stones, since they are 5100 years old (built around the same time as the pyramids) and pre-date written history.

We don’t know what is special about the area, but we have to assume that the whole area was considered sacred as there is also another mini Stonehenge nearby. The smaller stones are 5,000 lbs. and they came from Wales 125 miles away. It is mind-boggling to consider how the ancient Druids crafted and moved these stones when the wheel hadn’t even been invented yet and there was no metal yet to use to shape the stones. The larger stones came from only 25 miles away but they are tens of thousands of pounds!

They even rounded the stones slightly to make them fit the circular shape of Stonehenge (henge meaning circle.) In the middle is what they call the Slaughter Stone. There is no real evidence of ritual sacrifice at Stonehenge but it does make for a good story. You see, when it rains, the stone looks reddish. But it isn’t blood, just iron in the stone that causes the coloration.

Our Stonehenge private tour just happened to fall on one of the most popular days to visit — the Winter Solstice. The longest and shortest days of the year are popular to visit and if you get there early on the longest day of the year, you can see the sun rise above the Heel Stone (a stone that actually predates Stonehenge that the Druids may have thought was put their by the Gods.) Even though there were plenty of pagans and other visitors camping out to see the sunrise and sunset over the stones, overall it really wasn’t very crowded for our Stonehenge tour.

Day Trip to Oxford Tour

Oxford is another great London day trip pick for families. There is enough to see that you could spend a weekend in Oxford . This university town is both quaint and rich in history. In warmer weather, families can enjoy taking a punting boat out on the river.

But one of the main draws for us (and other families) is that it was the filming site for many scenes in the Harry Potter movies. If you visit on your own, you can join a Harry Potter walking tour. But since I told British Tours that this was important to us, our driver guide Michael was able to focus much of our visit on seeing these sites.

Oxford used to be called Oxenford (where oxen crossed or forded the Thames to be brought to market), but it became a place for study after students were thrown out of the Sorbonne in France because of a war in the 1200s. They came to Oxford to study and it grew until it was granted status as a University. Today, the University of Oxford has 38 individual colleges.

There is so much to see in Oxford you can really spend at least a full day but our Oxford tour started off at New College, where Michael pointed out the Cloisters, which were used for many hallway scenes in the Harry Potter movies. You can also see the tree where Draco Malfoy was turned into a ferret.

After lunch at the Turf Tavern, which has fed any number of famous people from Bill Clinton in the 1960s to Elizabeth Taylor, Ben Kingsley, and the cast and crew of the Harry Potter movies,  we moved on to Christchurch College.

The Great Hall at Christchurch College was where they filmed scenes for the dining hall at Hogwarts. And the staircase was where McGonagall greeted all the first year students in the first movie. Something about it just makes you want to put on a robe, head into the library and start studying (magic or something else!)

Oxford is such a wonderful place to visit for those with a literary bent. Famous authors like C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkein, Lewis Carroll and others have spent time in Oxford and it is fun to follow in their footsteps.

Visiting both places was a full day, departing at 8am and returning to our central London hotel by 6pm. In the summer, it would be light longer and attractions would stay open later. If that was the case, we would have included a stop in the village of Lacock in the Cotswolds, another Harry Potter filming site.

This day tour with British Tours was exactly what we had hoped for with a warm and informative guide that was as comfortable explaining ancient history as describing filming sites for Harry Potter movies. Michael was able to connect with our teen and she was so enchanted with Oxford, that she wanted to apply to go to college in Oxford. We would definitely recommend working with British Tours for a group trip or, even better, hiring a private driver guide for your own custom trip from London.

British Tours offers all types of day tours from London including private and group tours to Windsor Castle, Bath, Stratford Upon Avon, Blenheim Castle, and Highclere Castle (the real Downton Abbey.) SaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSave SaveSave

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The post How to Plan a Day Trip to Stonehenge and Oxford from London appeared first on We3Travel .

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London to Oxford by Train and Bus

This post covers day trips to Oxford from London, including how to get here by bus, train as well as taking an organized guided tour.

• Where is Oxford
• Train from London
• Bus from London
• Organized Tours
• Why Visit Oxford

Disclosure:  While our recommendations are always unbiased, we may receive a small share of sales through some of the links below at no cost to you. See the  full text .

WHERE IS OXFORD?

Located 97 km northwest of London, Oxford is roughly 53 miles (85 km) from London.

There are several different ways to get there which won’t take much time.

For most visitors from London, the train is the optimal way to go , as it's inexpensive, reliable, and usually the quickest form of transportation.

60 min by train

Alternatively, you can go by bus (or drive). This usually takes between 80-120 minutes.

Even if you run into traffic, you should still be able to reach your destination in 2 hours at most.

TRAIN FROM LONDON TO OXFORD

If you’re not interested in taking the bus, there are trains that will take you to Oxford .

These trains depart from Paddington Station in London throughout the day, and the journey only takes about an hour on average.

Prices vary depending on dates and times, but you can expect tickets to range from £25 – £35 on average for an adult return ticket.

Depending on when you decide to leave for Oxford, you can expect trains to leave once every 10-15 minutes during busy hours and every 15-30 minutes at quieter times.

You should also plan on traveling during times that aren’t as busy because tickets are usually much cheaper when they have trouble filling the train.

Returning from Oxford to London is just as easy with trains running throughout the day from Oxford Station to London Paddington.

This service runs from about 7 am - 11 pm each day. 

The best way to save money on tickets is to purchase them well ahead of time.

Purchase train tickets to Oxford .

Many visitors feel that the train to Oxford is much better than the bus. The biggest advantage of taking the train is that it's quicker.

That being said, some customers prefer paying less for the bus service.

Another advantage of taking the coach is that there are several bus stops in Oxford, but only one train stop.

BUS FROM LONDON TO OXFORD

If you don’t feel like driving to Oxford, there are a few very good bus services you may want to consider instead.

Each service runs quite frequently, so it’s pretty easy to use throughout the day.

We list the 3 top companies below, but you can do a quick search here ( NOTE : The default setting is set to train. Switch to bus).

Prices range from £5-£10 for a one-way ticket and £11-£15 for a return ticket.

On average, the bus will take about 1 ½ hours to reach Oxford, with a total travel time of 3 hours to and from the city.

Travelers who use a bus/coach to visit Oxford indicate that each of these services is fairly reliable.

For the most part, there are very few complaints about the prices or the amount of time it takes to get there.

That being said, some customers suggest that you should prepare for a slightly longer trip depending on how far into Oxford you plan to travel.

If you’re planning to get off at the last stop, chances are it will take more time than the 1 ½ - 2 hours listed by each major company.

Oxford Express

Also known as the X90, this line is a bit more affordable than some of the other services.

They offer departures every 30 minutes throughout the entire day.

There are 5 stops where you can get on and the journey will take anywhere from 1 ½ - 2 hours depending on traffic.

• Adult Prices: £14/One Way | £17/Return
• Senior Prices: £11/One Way | £13/Return
• Youth Prices: £11/One Way | £13/Return
• Child Prices: £11/One Way | £13/Return
• Purchase tickets here .

Oxford Tube

This is one of the most popular services, but it’s also the most expensive.

They offer a bus to Oxford once every 10-15 minutes, 24 hours a day.

There are a total of 5 designated stops in London and the trip will take about 100 minutes to complete.

• Adult Prices: £11/One Way | £17/Return
• Student Prices: £10/One Way | £15/Return
• Youth Prices: £10/One Way | £15/Return
• Under 16 Prices: £4/One Way | £6.50/Return
• Over 60 Prices: £10/One Way | £15/Return

This company offers some of the cheapest tickets to Oxford, but their prices are based on when you choose to go.

If you purchase your ticket at least a few days ahead of time, you should be able to get the best prices.

Megabus offers up to 296 trips per day and the fastest bus will get you to Oxford in as little as an hour.

Ticket prices aren’t based on age, so all you have to do is plan ahead to get tickets for as little as £5 per person. Search for tickets .

ORGANIZED TOURS FROM LONDON

There are many organized tours of Oxford that begin and end from London. Below are 2 options that we go into detail on.

However, there are many more that focus on or include Oxford, in fact, too many to list here. Click here to see the full list of options .. Many of these options will also include places like Cambridge, Warwick Castle, Stratford, Stonehenge, Windsor, the Cotswolds, and other places.

And of course, you could just visit on your own. There are numerous guided and self-guided tours that start in Oxford . 

Harry Potter Oxford Day Tour

If you’re a fan of the Harry Potter series, this may be one of the best tour options in London.

In addition to a studio tour which includes a lot of great sets from the movies, you will also have the opportunity to go on a day trip to Oxford and enjoy a tour of several major filming locations that Warner Bros used for the Harry Potter movies.

• Tickets: £109/Adults | £105/Children
• Availability: Saturday - Wednesday at 8 am
• Duration: One Day
• Food and drink not included
• Purchase or learn more .

This day tour has an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars ( read reviews here ).

Some guests feel that the experience is brilliant from start to finish, indicating that their tour guide is very knowledgeable about Oxford and the Harry Potter films.

Most customers are impressed with the amount of information they learn about the movies and the opportunity to see where it was made.

WHY VISIT OXFORD?

Known throughout the world as one of the most historic and beautiful sites on earth, Oxford is an easy day-trip away from London via a 'London to Oxford train'.

The Oxford city centre, with its monuments, colleges, parks, and museums, caters to any taste, answering the question of 'what to do in Oxford' with a myriad of options that promise fun for everyone – no matter what their interests!

Boarding 'trains to Oxford' provides a seamless journey from the bustling city of London to the historic charm of Oxford, making this trip a must for every travel itinerary.

There are several different things to see and do in the area, including some of the following attractions:

• Oxford University
• Oxford Castle
• Carfax Tower
• Harry Potter Filming Locations
• Downton Abbey Filming Locations
• Influential Architecture
• The Ultimate Picture Palace
• Museum of Natural History
• Museum of Modern Art
• Ashmolean Museum

If you’re looking for additional information about these locations and many others in the area, make sure to read our post about 12 reasons to visit Oxford .

What is the cheapest way to get to Oxford from London?

The cheapest way to get to Oxford from London is likely by booking advance tickets for a train journey from London Paddington Station. Cheap train tickets often have limited availability, so it's best to book train tickets early.

What is the easiest way to get to Oxford from London?

The easiest way to get to Oxford from London is by public transport, specifically the Great Western Railway (GWR) direct services from London Paddington to Oxford Station.

What are off-peak times for traveling from London to Oxford?

Off-peak times for traveling from London to Oxford are typically outside the morning and evening rush hours on weekdays, and all day on weekends, providing flexibility for passengers.

What is the main train station in Oxford?

The main train station in Oxford is Oxford Station, centrally located near the Oxford City Centre for easy access.

What time does the Oxford train station close?

The closing time of Oxford train station varies, so it's recommended to check the FAQs or official site for the most accurate information.

What is the last train from London to Oxford?

The last train from London to Oxford typically departs from London Paddington in the late evening, but the exact time can vary, so passengers should check the daily departures.

What is the last train from Oxford to London?

The last train from Oxford to London also tends to depart in the late evening. For a comfortable journey, passengers can consider options like first-class or seat reservations.

GPS-Led Audio Tour

We are happy to provide you with an excellent guided tour that you could take any time you wish. This tour starts from the main train station, so it's perfect for day-trippers coming to Oxford by train.

The app is free to download and the tour costs just £2. 

Here is how it works:

• Purchase your tour online.
• Get a confirmation email with .mp3, .pdf and embeddable Google Map.
• Enjoy the tour(s).

Here's a sample.

RELATED POSTS

• Things to Do in Oxford
• Guided Tours of Oxford
• Things to Do in London
• How to Get from London to Paris by Train

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Visiting Oxford

Oxford is a beautiful city of stunning architecture, history and culture. You'll find ancient and modern colleges, fascinating museums and galleries, and plenty of parks, gardens and green spaces in which to relax. Plus, the city centre is small enough to cover on foot, and only a few minutes walk from the main rail and coach stations.

Things to see and do at Oxford University

Oxford is not a campus university, so it is not all located on one site. It is made up of many different buildings, including academic departments, colleges and halls, located around the centre of Oxford. Many University buildings, such as gardens, libraries and museums, as well as many of the colleges, are open to visitors during the day, although please note that they may have varying opening hours, fees and rules for groups.

You can find more information, including opening times and fees, at the links below:

• Visiting the Colleges
• Visiting Museums, Libraries and Places of Interest
• What's on at the University
• Shopping at the University

To make the most of your visit, bring along a copy of our leaflet, ' Explore the University of Oxford ', which contains a map and information on opening times of colleges, museums and other places of interest. 

Tours of Oxford University

Oxford University does not organise tours but a city walking tour is offered by the Bodleian Libraries in association with the Oxford Guild of Tour Guides. The tours, all operated by Blue and Green Badge Guides, begin at the beautiful modern Weston Library before heading through the historic and famous streets of the city. Tours take around two hours and can be  booked through the Bodleian Libraries .

A number of independent operators also offer guided tours of Oxford. A range of general and themed tours are available, as are tours by cycle, rickshaw and bus. For a list of tour companies, please visit the  Daily Information  website. 

Please note that all operators are independent of Oxford University. Details are provided here for information only. 

Disabled access

The collegiate University is committed to improving access and is currently continuing to develop its Access guide . As more of our historic buildings are modified the Access guide will become more comprehensive. In the meantime, the Access guide is a helpful first point for information on accessible buildings. Where there are gaps in the information we suggest you contact the places you wish to visit directly.

Information for prospective students

If you're thinking about applying for an undergraduate degree and want to see more of Oxford, our Virtual Open Days are an excellent opportunity to see the University, get to know the city, and meet tutors and students.

Additional information for visitors to the city of Oxford

Experience Oxfordshire  offers advice on walking tours, accommodation, things to do in Oxford, and more.

• History of the University
• Oxford Glossary
• Oxford people

Special offers for alumni

Make sure to bring your Alumni Card with you and see our special offers on the Alumni website

Accommodation in Oxford

• Accommodation at the University and the Colleges
• Visit Oxfordshire - where to stay
• TripAdvisor - hotels near Oxford University

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Hi, I'm Candace

Candace Abroad

A London & Travel Blog

Travel , UK Travel · August 14, 2023

How to Do the Perfect London Day Trip to Oxford in 2024

Table of Contents

Looking to do a London day trip to Oxford? I’ve got you covered. From transport to costs and things to do, here’s how to do the perfect day trip from London to Oxford — from a Londoner!

This post may contain affiliate links. Check out my  Disclosure & Privacy Policy  for more information.

Although London is entirely fabulous in its own right, sometimes it’s good to get away.

This year I traded the bustle of London for the curious calm of Oxford — and it was a beautiful day trip.

Whether you’re visiting London and looking for some places to add to your UK trip or a London local in need of a change, here’s how to do the perfect London day trip to Oxford.

Including my opinion on if Oxford is worth a day trip from London , the best way to get from London to Oxford , how much it costs to do a day trip from London to Oxford , how to spend one day in Oxford , the best Oxford attractions, tours and experiences , the best places to stay in Oxford and a final London to Oxford day trip FAQ . Shall we?

How to Do the Perfect Day Trip From London to Oxford

Is Oxford Worth a Day Trip From London?

The first thing you’re probably wondering is “Is Oxford, England worth visiting?” .

The famed university city is well-known for having the crème de la crème of education systems, with a little place called the University of Oxford .

But beyond its educational allure, there’s tons for tourists to get up to here too.

From discovering its 12th-century history to doing some Harry Potter movie scouting or simply basking in its unique mix of old-world and modern — a day in Oxford is a day well-spent.

So, yes Oxford is 100% worth visiting . You may also be wondering…

How many days do you need in Oxford?

I definitely think you can see a lot in a day here if you’re sticking to the city centre. But for the full experience, I’d say 2 days is enough (i.e – a weekend trip).

How does the city of Oxford compare to London?

I don’t think you’ll find too many similarities. Oxford is much smaller than London and really gives you a ‘small town’ vibe.

However, both cities are seeped in history and the green spaces here can sometimes be reflective of London’s smaller parks .

But I wouldn’t go to Oxford expecting it to be like London. They’re completely different!

What’s the best season for a day trip from London to Oxford?

Autumn in my opinion, seeing the leaves scattered on the cobbled streets of Oxford is pretty magical, plus the weather is still fairly reasonable, and the summer tourist crowds have died down.

Which is a better day trip — London to Oxford or London to Cambridge?

Understandably Oxford is often compared to Cambridge. But having taken a day trip from London to Cambridge as well, I would say both are worth visiting.

Unlike London and Oxford, I definitely noticed similarities between Oxford and Cambridge. However, I still think both offer something unique and are worth exploring individually.

P.S – There’s plenty of tours that will take you to both Oxford and Cambridge on the same day from London if you’re short on time!

How Do I Go From London to Oxford?

Now that you know you want to go to Oxford (yay!), it’s time to actually get there.

London is a little under an hour from Oxford and is best reached by train — which is by far the fastest way to get from London to Oxford, leaving most commonly from London Paddington Station .

To make sure you get the best discount on tickets I highly suggest using Trainline .

Their entire platform is dedicated to finding the cheapest train tickets on the internet, with tickets from London to Oxford for just £10!

To get your ticket, just head to Trainline.com , enter your departure and arrival date & time and watch the magic happen. Click here to book .

How much does it cost to travel from London to Oxford?

As you saw above, travelling from London to Oxford can be as cheap as 10 quid! With the average ticket cost being anywhere from £2.70 to £29.90 each way (unless you opt for first class).

This makes it a very affordable day trip from London, but you’ll still want to book the earliest you can to get the best deal on seats — those £5 tickets go fast!

Is Oxford cheaper than London?

Anything’s cheaper than London, lol.

But in all seriousness, Oxford is cheaper than London in many regards. But as a tourist, you’ll find a lot of the tours and attractions still cost about the same amount as London’s attractions would.

How much to plan to spend for a day trip from London to Oxford

Of course, how much you spend when you’re actually in Oxford will vary. But for my London to Oxford day trip I spent around £100 for the whole day including travel, eating, and activities .

I honestly think you could spend even less than this if you’re very budget-conscious, or more of course if you’re doing a weekend trip, want to splurge on attractions and experiences, or have a really nice meal in the area during your day trip.

How to Spend a Day in Oxford: Oxford Day Itinerary

8-9am: Catch the train to Oxford from London

If you’re only spending one day in Oxford from London, then it’s best to get a head start on your day and leave around 8 or 9am from Paddington Station (psst, make sure you’ve bought your tickets in advance ).

10am-11am: Breakfast at the Handle Bar

Once you get off at Oxford train station, it’s a little over a 10 minute walk to the city centre.

You won’t need to drop off your luggage, so use the opportunity to take in Oxford by stroll until you reach The Handle Bar .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Handle Bar Oxford (@handlebaroxford)

It’s an unassuming local cafe and kitchen tucked behind a bike shop, and is the perfect introduction to Oxford living.

I suggest digging into their HB Full House with Mayfield eggs, sausage, and bacon from local butchers, roasted provençale tomato, garlic and herbs field mushroom, black-eyed beans, and fried potatoes with seeded sourdough — giving you all the energy you need for a day of exploring Oxford.

11am – 12:30pm: Visit the Oxford Botanic Garden

From The Handle Bar, take a brisk 13-minute walk to the Oxford Botanic Garden & Arboretum .

Founded in 1621, it’s officially the oldest botanic garden in Great Britain, including 5,000 different plants from around the world.

Outside of the beautiful photo ops here, I suggest visiting The Glasshouse, The Walled Garden, The Herbarium, and The Lower Garden.

12:30pm – 2:00pm: Walk Around the City Centre & Explore Oxford’s Libraries and Museums

As morning turns to afternoon, now’s your time to take in Oxford like a local.

If you’re doing a day trip from London to Oxford, you won’t have time to go inside all of the museums and libraries.

But I at least suggest having a peek at the Bodleian Library (one of the oldest museums in Europe and Oxford University’s main library) and the Ashmolean Museum, the University of Oxford’s museum of art and archaeology — founded in the 1600s.

Other notable museums & libraries in Oxford include:

• The Story Museum
• Oxford Museum of Natural History
• History of Science Museum
• Pitt Rivers Museum
• Museum of Oxford

If museums aren’t your thing or you’d rather spend the time simply roaming the city centre of Oxford, then I highly suggest visiting The Covered Market — a local traders market founded in 1774 with over 50 independent shops, cafes, and bars.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Covered Market Oxford (@thecoveredmarketoxford)

After which, you can visit The Alice Shop , one of the real visiting places of Alice Pleasance Liddell — Oxford student Charles Dodgson (aka Lewis Carroll’s) inspiration for the Alice in Wonderland series. Right in Oxford!

2:00pm – 3:00pm: Tea at the Grand Cafe

It wouldn’t be a London day trip to Oxford without a tea at The Grand Cafe .

The first (yes, first) coffee house in England sits right on the high street and is a fabulous place to watch Oxford life go by.

Sit down and grab a coffee or tea here before continuing on your day trip. Or if you have the time, enjoy…

• High Tea – filled with egg and smoked salmon sandwiches, scones, and your choice of tea
• The Grand High Tea – accompanied by all of the above, plus a glass of champagne
• Cream Tea – with two scones and tea if you’re looking for something light

P.S – It’s walk-ins only here, so don’t worry about making a reservation! You can check out their full menu here .

3:00pm-4:15pm: See Harry Potter at Christ Church

After tea, it’s time to do some Harry Potter scouting. And Christ Church is a must-see.

The Oxford institution was used in the magical film several times. Including the Bodley Staircase, used in Philosopher’s Stone when Harry, Ron, and Hermoine become new first years; the cloisters in Sorcerer’s Stone as the hallway Harry Potter sees his father’s Quidditch trophy; and The Great Hall, the same room where students eat and congregate in the film.

Visiting the Great Hall in Christ Church in particular was my favourite, as it literally felt like stepping into a Harry Potter movie set.

The grand hall, with its large wooden doors, magnificent staircases, and iconic stained glass windows will transport you instantly. So be sure to take some pictures!

Other Harry Potter movie locations in Oxford include:

• New College:  Cloisters
• New College:  Courtyard
• Bodleian Library:  Duke Humfrey’s Library 
• Bodleian Library:  The Divinity School 

Tickets to Christ Church are £16 online or £18 at the door and can be purchased directly on their website .

As this is quite a popular Oxford attraction, I suggest booking online before your London to Oxford day trip to avoid disappointment!

Other Christ Church & Harry Potter Tours in Oxford:

4:15pm – 5:00pm: see the view from the tower of st mary the virgin.

After you’re all Harry Potter’d out, it’s time to take in some last-minute Oxford views.

The University Church of St Mary the Virgin is smack dab in the centre of Oxford and has been a place of Christian worship for over 1,000 years. Talk about history!

At the top is the ‘Tower’, dating back to 1280.

Brace yourself for the steep 127-step climb (no lift, unfortunately), and you’ll be awarded with views like this.

Trust me — it’s worth it.

Tickets are £5 and can be purchased directly from the church shop on arrival. Last admission is at 4:30pm.

P.S – This means you’ll be cutting it quite close if you’re going straight from Christ Church, so keep an eye on the time!

5:30pm – 7pm: Cosy down for Dinner in Oxford

Once the evening sets in Oxford, it’s time to indulge in some pub grub.

Although it’s still closed as of writing, Eagle & Child is where CS Lewis and JRR Tolkien used to take up a drink (or two) in Oxford and have what I’m sure were the most intellectual of discussions.

But for dinner spots that are actually open in Oxford, I suggest heading to St Aldates Tavern — a historic pub right in the city centre specialising in homemade and seasonal plates ( see menu ), Gees Restaurant & Bar for higher-end Mediterranean dining in an elegant glass conservatory setting ( see menu )or Lamb & Flag if you’d just prefer drinks.

P.S – If you’re looking for other options, my lovely travel blogger friend Rose is an Oxford local and wrote a fabulous guide to all the best restaurants in Oxford .

7pm-8pm: Catch the train back to London

And just like that, our London day trip to Oxford has come to an end!

It’s time to take the train back to London Paddington , reminiscing on our sweet, sweet trip to Oxford for years to come.

Map of the Best Things to Do for a Day Trip from in Oxford: What to Do for One Day in Oxford

Best Oxford Tours, Attractions & Experiences

The best places to stay in oxford.

If you decide to make your London to Oxford day trip a weekend affair, then you may need a place to stay. Here are some options:

• Newton House Oxford – a classic Victorian B&B with takeaway breakfast (from £114 a night)
• Holiday Inn Oxford – has all the amenities you’d expect from a reputable hotel chain, including a complimentary shuttle to bring you straight to the city centre (from £84 a night)
• Courtyard by Marriot Oxford – a 4-star hotel in the city centre with contemporary rooms, breakfast, restaurant & bar (from £161 a night)
• Vanbrugh House Hotel – posh Oxford-style rooms featuring a bar & brasserie and terrace (from £131 a night)
• The Randolph Hotel – a 5-star Oxford hotel offering unique-styled rooms, spa, and bar — spitting distance from the Bodleian Library (from £188 a night)

Final Tips for Your London Day Trip to Oxford: London Day Trip to Oxford FAQ

What should I pack for one day in Oxford?

I’d suggest packing no more than a light backpack, including a portable charger, water bottle, umbrella, and perhaps a good book for the train journey.

What should I wear for my London to Oxford day trip?

Layers and comfortable shoes. We all know how unpredictable UK weather can be, and nothing will ruin your day trip more than finding yourself freezing on an Oxford afternoon!

As you’ll be walking from place to place, you’ll definitely want to go for comfortable walking shoes and above all, dress comfortably.

Can you visit Oxford University for free?

Outside of Christ Church, there are dozens of Oxford colleges to explore. Admission varies by college, some are free, and some require a small donation. For a full list of Oxford colleges and admission prices, click here .

Will I need to use public transport while I’m in Oxford?

Unless you despise walking, you really won’t need to use public transport during your day trip from London to Oxford.

Everything you’ll be doing will pretty much stick to the city centre, which is completely walkable.

If you would like to use public transit in the area, make sure you check out Oxford’s transport guide before you go.

Should I book my Oxford tours and experiences in advance?

Yes! Oxford is a very popular day trip destination, so to avoid disappointment (and dealing with booking admin on the day), I highly suggest booking all your Oxford tours and experiences in advance. I personally use GetYourGuide .

Thanks for reading my London Day Trip to Oxford Guide. If you enjoyed it, please let me know on Instagram !

Check out more london day and weekend trip ideas:.

• How to Plan the Perfect Day Trip to Cambridge from London (+ Itinerary)
• 10 Best Things to do in Castle Combe, Cotswolds
• How to Spend a Day in Lacock, England (the Harry Potter Village!)
• How to Do the Perfect Weekend Trip From London to Worcestershire
• The BEST Things to do in Cheddar Gorge (Walks, Attractions, Tickets, & More!)
• The Best Things to do in Cheltenham (from a local)
• How to Do a Weekend Trip from London to Exeter
• London to Stratford-upon-Avon — How to Plan the Perfect Trip (Itinerary & Tips!)

Happy travels,

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Finding the Universe

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A Day Trip To Oxford: Things to Do in Oxford for a Day

Last updated: April 19, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 15 Comments

I spent a good deal of my childhood in Oxford, and it has long been one of my favourite cities in the UK. As you can imagine, we’ve explored the city in great detail! In today’s post, I want to help you plan your own day trip to Oxford, with a guide to all our favourite things to do in Oxford.

Being so close to London, Oxford makes for a popular day trip from the English capital. I t’s only an hour by rail from central London, with trains running regularly. So it’s easy enough to stay in London and just visit Oxford for the day. Oxford is also very compact and easy to get around, so you’ll be able to take in a good many highlights in a day.

Of course, there’s plenty to do for more than just a day if you’d prefer to spend longer in Oxford, so I’ve also included some tips on accommodation for a longer stay as well.

Here are some ideas for things to do on an Oxford day trip, based on both our recent visit and my previous experience living there. There’s also a section on how to get to Oxford from London to help you plan.

Things to do in Oxford on a Day Trip

Here’s a list of all our favourite things to do in Oxford which you should be able to do in a day trip from London, or other nearby location.

1. Take a walking tour

One thing Jess and I did this time round that was different to my previous visits was to take an official walking tour. This was an excellent way to get oriented (I always get lost in Oxford, the place is a maze!), learn about some of the history of the city, as well as see some University Colleges, of which there are many!

We took the Official University and City Tour , which started at the visitor centre and which is run by the official Oxford Tourism Board. Tours run a number of times a day, and are led by  licensed blue badge guides, which means they really know their stuff.

The tour lasted a couple of hours, with our guide taking us to some of the highlights of Oxford, including the covered market, the high street, the Radcliffe Camera, the Bodleian Library and of course, a number of the university colleges.

It was excellent value for money, and a wonderful way to quickly get a handle on the layout of Oxford, the history of the town, and to learn more about the university colleges. We also went in to a number of the universities, and were given advice and tips as to which ones we should come back to to visit independently.

Finally, our last port of call was the optional Divinity School, a stunning building which also doubled up as the location for the Hogwarts Sanatorium in the Harry Potter movies.

Film buffs will know that Oxford was featured in many of the Harry Potter films – see our guide to Harry Potter filming locations for more of these. Plus you can take a specific Harry Potter walking tour if that’s what you are interested in.

All in all, a very worthwhile couple of hours of exploration! If you’re interested in doing a walking tour of Oxford, this is a link to the tour we took  so you can book in advance now.

Alternatively, you can also take a tour of Oxford which is led by an Oxford student , which is a fun way to get more of an insight into what life here is like as a student. These tours cover similar ground and last around the same amount of time – you can see the reviews and book online here .

2. Visit the University Colleges

We visited a number of the colleges on our walking tour, and they are just stunning. Our guide had given us some ideas as to which we could visit by ourselves, including some of his personal favourites, and I would very much recommend setting aside a bit of time to explore the colleges by yourself.

A little bit about Oxford University. One of the oldest Universities in the world, Oxford University is made up of thirty eight colleges, each of which is independently governed. There’s no campus, with all the colleges, halls, faculties and departments set throughout the city centre.

Visiting the colleges is a bit hit and miss depending on the time of year. In addition, some of the colleges (notably Christchurch), do charge an entry fee. Since opening times vary depending on the time of year and the exam schedule, your best bet is to draw up a shortlist of colleges you would like to visit, and pop into the porter’s office for each college to see if it’s open. The porter’s office is pretty much always at the entrance, and we found that they were always more than happy to help us out.

We visited a number of the colleges, including David’s College, Exeter College and Trinity College. I particularly liked the chapel at Exeter College, arguably one of the most picturesque of all the college chapels, and the gardens at Trinity College was also gorgeous to walk in.

Christchurch, which is generally regarded as one of the more spectacular colleges, was unfortunately closed on the day we visited, but if it’s open when you’re in town, I’d highly recommend popping by.

3. Go Punting

Punting is a classic pastime in Oxford, and one that is best enjoyed over a lengthy period of time, where you can learn how to actually do it, and maybe even reach a pub somewhere on your journey.

I’ve punted a few times before, but usually in the company of a competent punting friend. On this visit, it was just Jess and I, so I was given the task of figuring out how to make the boat move along the river in the direction I wanted it to go.

After a slightly confusing start where I confused the front and back of the punt, and following some helpful advice from the punt house as to my technique, we set off upstream, with the theory being that this would make for an easier return journey. I settled into a vaguely efficient rhythm, managing to avoid both the riverbanks and other punters, and we had a lovely time, even if we didn’t get quite far enough to find a pub.

For punting, I’ve always gone with the Cherwell Boathouse . It’s a great location, there are pubs in both directions, and they have a lovely bar and restaurant on-site if you don’t quite make it the half hour upstream that’s required to find a pub. We went this time, and were thankful for the friendly service and helpful punting advice! Punts are hired either by the hour, or the day, with the most up to date prices on their website.

4. Imbibe a Beverage

If you struggle to punt your way to a pub, don’t worry. Oxford has no shortage of fantastic watering holes, with some personal favourites including The Eagle & Child (popular with Tolkien), The White Horse, the Lamb and Flag, and the King’s Arms.

At the top of my list though is The Turf Tavern . A little tricky to find, being as it is down a tiny alley just next to the Bridge of Sighs, if you’re struggling just find a local to give you directions. This is one of the oldest pubs in Oxford, and has a lovely outdoor beer garden as well as plentiful indoor seating and a wide selection of beers as well as food.

It’s popular with University students, and has had it’s fair share of famous faces over the years, including former Australian Prime Minister Bob Hawke, who downed a yard of ale in 11 seconds. Not as easy as it sounds. Other famous visitors include Bill Clinton, and legend has it that it was at the Turf Tavern that he “did not inhale”. Whatever you think of that story, you’re bound to love this venue.

5. Visit Oxford Castle

If you are travelling with children, they’ll likely love a visit to Oxford Castle . Originally built in the 10th century, the castle served first as the main defensive centre of the town, back when castles were genuinely useful for that, before being used as a prison from around the 14th century.

Whilst much of the original castle was destroyed in the English Civil War, the parts that survived were incorporated into Oxford’s official prison, and stayed that way until 1996, when it was concluded that it probably wasn’t the most modern of prison constructions, and decommissioned.

Now, the surviving castle complex serves a number of functions, with part of it being a hotel. As a visitor wanting to learn more about the history though, you’ll want to take an Oxford Castle Unlocked tour, which gives you access to the Motte (a big earth mound), St George’s Tower, the crypt and parts of the prison.

The tour, which ran for around half an hour, largely comprised St George’s tower, and was performed by a character actor who assumed the role of King Stephen. From him, we learnt all about the history of the tower and it’s various uses, as well as some notable characters who had been held here.

We also got to go up on the roof of the tower itself, which had great views over the city. After the tour was complete, we were able to explore the prison, where we got a bit of an insight into prison life over the years, which looked pretty miserable! You can buy tickets online here .

6. Climb the University Church

Regular readers will know that one of my favourite ways to see a city is from above, usually by finding a nice tower and climbing to the top of it. It turns out that even in all my years living around Oxford I had never found a suitable tower, which was a bit of a failing as it turns out there’s an excellent view to be had from the top of the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin , which is right next to the Radcliffe Camera.

It’s a bit of a climb to the top, and there’s an entry fee of £4, but the view is more than worth both the effort and expense.

Practicalities for Visiting Oxford

Where to stay in oxford.

If you want to stay in Oxford for longer than a day, there are plenty of options in Oxford for accommodation to suit the majority of budgets.

We stayed a little way outside of the city centre at the peaceful Hawkwell House Hotel , found in Iffley Village. This is just a short taxi ride from Oxford City centre, or a ten minute bus ride. It’s also walkable via a lovely riverside footpath.

Our room was very comfortable, and the included English breakfast was of course appreciated. Other details like free wi-fi and luggage storage rounded out a solid offering.

If you’d prefer to be more central, there are lots of options for city centre accommodation in Oxford – check out the booking.com listings for Oxford here to get yourself started.

How to Get To Oxford from London

Oxford is very easy to get to, being served by trains and buses, and of course by car. There are direct trains from London Paddington to Oxford multiple times an hour – if you get one of the fast trains the journey time is around an hour.

Avoid the local trains which stop at more than four stations on the route, as this can make the journey more like two hours! We recommend the  Trainline   website for advanced booking reservations – we’ve tried most of the train booking sites in the UK and the Trainline is our favourite for ease of use.

Always book train tickets in advance of your travel for the best prices in the UK, and opt to either have them delivered to your mobile device, or to pick them up from the station, to save on postage fees.

There are also buses to Oxford from the centre of London, Heathrow Airport, Gatwick Airport and Stanstead Airport, as well as many other destinations around the UK.

Buses (also known as coaches) in the UK are usually a little bit cheaper than the train, although they do take a bit longer. We recommend Megabus for bus travel, see their prices and book in advance for the best deals here .

If you’d prefer to drive yourself, Oxford is between 60 and 90 minutes drive from London. If you’re visiting Oxford as part of my detailed two week UK itinerary , then you’ll know that a hire car is my preferred method of getting around the country, giving you more flexibility and control over your trip. We recommend searching for your car rental on Discover Cars here . They compare a range of providers so you can find the best deal for your trip.

Finally, if you want to just visit Oxford as part of a tour and let someone else handle all the logistics, there are a number of tours you can take from London. Here are a few options to choose from:

• A tour of Oxford, the Cotswolds and Stratford . This is a full day out, and means you’ll see a number of popular English attractions
• A tour of Oxford, Stonehenge & Windsor   – another full day of some of the most popular attractions you can visit from London
• A tour of Oxford and the Harry Potter Studios – two popular destinations that you can visit in a day from London
• A tour of Oxford and some of the stone villages of the Cotswolds

As you can see, there’s no shortage of choice when it comes to options for visiting Oxford as a day trip from London, as well as trips incorporating some other popular destinations.

Further reading

We’ve got lots of resources to help you plan your trip to the UK, from posts we’ve written ourselves to third party content we’re happy to recommend. Here it is:

• If you’re planning a trip around the UK, I have both a one week itinerary of the UK and a two week UK Itinerary for you to check out.
• For budget planning, see our guide to how much it costs to travel in the UK
• Our guide to things to do in Cambridge , another popular day trip from London
• A two day Edinburgh Itinerary & 21 Highlights in Edinburgh
• A 2 Day Glasgow itinerary
• Looking for an epic Scottish road trip? Take a look at our guide to the North Coast 500
• A guide to 10 of the best Stately Homes in England , to give you some ideas as you plan your itinerary
• Essential Sight-Seeing in London
• The Best Photography Locations in London
• Tips on Buying and Using the London Pass
• Eight Things to Do in Kensington
• Visiting Blenheim Palace and the Cotswolds as a day trip from London
• 20 Things To Do in Dublin
• A Guide to Touring the Scottish Borders
• If you want a physical (or digital!) book to accompany your travels, then we suggest the Oxford Insight Guide

So you know: we partnered with Visit Britain for our trip to Oxford, who covered our accommodation, walking tour, punting trip and Oxford Castle visit. As always, opinions remain our own – check out our code of ethics for our disclosure policy.

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There are 15 comments on this post

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SITI MAHINA BINTI ABDUL MANAP says

7th September 2023 at 9:01 am

Tq for the post.Really helpful.Will fly over to London mid December 2023.Any tips on how it’s like in winter?

Laurence Norah says

8th September 2023 at 8:13 am

My pleasure. So in December the UK in general is relatively cold, although this will depend on where you are coming from. Expect temperature to be between freezing and around 10C, with rain likely. The days will also be quite short at this time of year, sunrise in mid-December is around 8am, and sunset is just before 4pm.

As long as you dress appropriately though, with warm layers and a waterproof coat or umbrella, you will be fine. Most cities and towns will have nice Christmas lights and other festivities going on at this time of year, like CHristmas markets, so it can be a lovely time to visit.

I’d suggest reading our UK packing list guide for some tips on what to bring 🙂

Have a great trip!

Isabelle Martinez says

5th November 2019 at 3:44 pm

Very interesting post. Exactly what I need to plan a day trip to Oxford on my next stay in London.

6th November 2019 at 9:02 am

Thanks very much – have a great trip!

Tania Fonseca says

4th April 2019 at 12:37 pm

Thank you for such a helpful guide full of great ideas! Can’t wait to visit Oxford next month and follow your tips. Wish you all the best!

4th April 2019 at 1:13 pm

Our pleasure Tania! Have a great trip – let us know if you have any questions!

6th February 2019 at 1:27 am

I am planning my first trip to the UK (not London- done that). Came upon your blog and really enjoy the frankness and especially the beautiful photos.

6th February 2019 at 10:31 am

Thanks Linda 🙂 Have a great trip and do let us know if you have any questions!

23rd January 2019 at 5:31 pm

Thankyou for a lovely reminder of my home city of Oxford. I have not been home for 23 years ( it’s still home to all of my family, I’m the only one who moved more than 3 miles away) I miss my home city , even though I love my adopted country (USA) it doesn’t have the grandeur and rich history of England.

23rd January 2019 at 9:08 pm

Our pleasure Marie! We hope you get to make it “home” at some point soon 😀

27th November 2018 at 5:34 pm

I tried punting in Oxford and it’s so much harder than it looks >< You need to have a good core and strong arms for that! Well done for finding the front and back of the punt Laurence!

27th November 2018 at 6:19 pm

Thanks Alice! It is definitely a lot harder than it looks, and I have to say we didn’t go in an exactly straight line for most of our voyage 😉

Divya Nelson says

23rd March 2018 at 5:50 am

Thank you for such a lovely, picturesque guide to Oxford . I loved it thoroughly.

23rd March 2018 at 3:10 pm

My pleasure Divya – thanks for your kind comment!

curtis lau says

29th October 2016 at 8:59 am

Thanks for the introduction of the Oxford. Good insight.

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How to Get to Oxford from London (+ cheap options!)

This post contains affiliate links for which I may make a small commission to help keep the site running. You will not be charged extra for these items had you not clicked the links. Thank you for your help to keep the site running!

Whether you’re trying to figure out how to get from London to Oxford or how to get from Oxford to London, this travel guide has everything you need to know about your transport options.

London is, of course, one of the most popular international destinations, and Oxford is an amazing day trip from London.

With beautiful spires, incredible architecture, and Harry Potter filming locations, spending the day in Oxford is a must-do.

There’s even plenty to do in Oxford with kids , as well as things to do in Oxford for free if you’re on a budget.

But what’s the best way to get from London to Oxford?

Let’s dig in!

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How to Get from London to Oxford by Car

Getting to Oxford from London by car isn’t the best option for most people, and definitely not visitors to London.

However, if this is the route you choose, you should know that it takes about an hour to 2 hours depending on the traffic.

If you don’t have a car in the UK, you’ll want to rent one using Discover Cars for the best comparison prices.

IMPORTANT: are you coming to the UK from abroad?

In case you’re reading this from outside the UK and will be a foreign visitor here, you need to know these 2 things to stay safe and save money.

• Travel insurance – you need it when going overseas! I use this site to get the best quotes and purchase my packages from. Do not skip this – having medical coverage abroad as well as other coverage in case of missed flights, lost luggage, etc is essential. As I said, I have never gone wrong using this site .
• International debit cards without fees – do not get stuck paying extortionate foreign fees when using your card abroad (and the UK is almost all card these days). I use the Wise debit and travel card which you can apply and learn more about here .

Getting to Oxford from London by Public Transportation

All visitors to Oxford from London should get there by public transportation as it’s the easiest way and means you don’t have to deal with renting a car or parking, which is in short supply in both cites.

How to Get to Oxford from London by Bus

The cheapest way to get to Oxford from London or from Oxford to London is the Oxford Tube , which, despite the name, isn’t the tube but a bus!

It runs regularly from multiple stops in London, directly into Oxford’s city center at the Oxford bus station with a few stops on the outskirts of Oxford.

You can purchase a single (one way) or return (round trip) ticket, either online in advance or on the bus.

Tickets are discounted for children, groups, those over 60 and those under 26 years old.

Regular adult prices are £10 one way and £15 return in 2022.

The bus seats are comfortable, and even have a USB charger to keep your electronics charged during your journey.

It’s almost a 24 hour service, so by far the easiest way to get from London to Oxford.

The only downside to this option is that you are affected by the traffic, so your journey could take anywhere from an hour to two hours depending on the time of day.

I contend that the Oxford Tube is the best way to get to Oxford from London.

Click here to learn more about the Oxford tube.

How to Get to Oxford from London by Train

If a bus isn’t your thing, you can also get to Oxford from London by train.

The route runs from London Paddington Station to Oxford and London Marylebone Station to Oxford.

Which one you take depends mostly on what time you want to go and which one is cheaper.

You can compare London to Oxford train times and prices at Omio , as well as book your tickets.

The journey takes about 45 minutes to an hour, which makes traveling by train a faster way to get to Oxford from London.

You can also plan your timetable more easily, as there is no traffic to worry about and you will know when your planned arrival into Oxford is in case that helps you plan other scheduled activities more easily.

However, the prices are higher – a last minute one way ticket on one of these trains at the time of writing this article is about £30 per person, compared to £10 on the Oxford Tube.

One thing to note when taking the train to Oxford from London is that some routes continue to “Oxford Parkway Station.”

For those visiting Oxford to sightsee, this is not the stop you want.

Instead, you want plain old “Oxford” as your stop.

Getting to Oxford from London with a Guided Tour

The final option for visitors wanting to travel to Oxford from London is to take a guided tour.

This is a fantastic option when you want someone to show you the ropes, and you’ll be transported to Oxford via private coach so you don’t have to stop to pick anyone else up like on the Oxford Tube.

You have a few option depending on what you want to see in Oxford, but I recommend either this tour which takes you to Windsor, Stonehenge, and Oxford in one day from London or this tour which takes you to Oxford and Cambridge in one day from London.

Harry Potter fans should also consider this tour , which includes both Oxford (a huge Harry Potter filming location) and the Harry Potter Studio tour in one day trip.

Want more UK travel help? Check out these guides!

• Exactly How to Get to Dover from London
• Exactly How to Get to Brighton from London
• Exactly How to Get to Disneyland Paris from London
• Exactly How to Get to Paris from London
• Exactly How to Get to Canterbury from London
• Exactly How to Get to Windsor from London
• Exactly How to Get to Hampton Court Palace from London
• Exactly How to Get to Stonehenge from London
• Exactly How to Get to Cambridge from London
• Exactly How to Get to the Harry Potter Studio Tour from London
• Exactly How to Get to Bath from London
• Exactly How to Get to Stratford-upon-Avon from London
• Exactly How to Get to Edinburgh from London

Heading to London? Want the best tips?

Check out my Ultimate Guide to London for Visitors. Using text, images and video, this guide is packed full of tips, tricks, safety advice, knowledge on how to get around and what to do, and more!

Moving to the UK or already an Expat?

Grab my book which covers moving to the UK, struggles I faced and that you might face too, and uplifting advice to help you along the way! Available in hard copy and on Kindle.

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Things to do in Oxford: 24 Must-See Oxford Attractions

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The city of dreaming spires, Oxford is a beautiful city packed with places to see. Looking for the best things to do in Oxford? Here’s where to start.

We might be biased, but Oxford is one of our favourite places in the UK – not least because we spent three years at university there. 

Personal bias aside, there are few places in the UK or Europe that can rival the city’s beautiful architecture and important history.

Whether you are visiting Oxford for the first or fiftieth time, there’s always something new to discover – some secret spot to find.

Check out the best things to do in Oxford – well-known spots and hidden treasures. Ready to explore? Let’s go.

PS – Only in Oxford for a short time? Read my guide to 24 Hours in Oxford.

What Are The Best Things to do in Oxford? Our Top Five Picks

The bodleian library.

The Bodleian Library is one of the oldest and biggest libraries in Britain.

The library (which is actually a series of interconnected libraries dotted throughout Oxford that are collectively referred to as the Bodleian Libraries) has an impressive history – some of its buildings have been libraries since the Middle Ages.

All very well and good, but it’s the library’s architecture that is really going to blow you away. From the gorgeous domed Radcliffe Camera to the fortress-like Old Bodleian Library, the “Bod” boasts some of the most striking buildings in Oxford.

If you only have time to visit two, make them the Radcliffe Camera and the Old Library.

The Bod’s interiors are no less impressive – it’s a working library so large sections of the library are off-limits unless you book onto a tour , which we highly recommend.

Even if you don’t – pay to enter The Divinity School, not only is it one of the Bodleian’s most ornately-decorated rooms, it also pops up in the Harry Potter films.

🦉 Check out these guided tour of Harry Potter filming locations in Oxford or read my guide to self-guided tour of Harry Potter locations .

The Radcliffe Camera

The building that launched a million camera clicks. The Radcliffe Camera is an iconic piece of Oxford architecture and sits at the heart of the city of dreaming spires. Ask anyone for the top places to go in Oxford and it will be there, right at the top of the list.

The Rad Cam, as its fondly nicknamed, was built in the 18th century – so it’s actually pretty modern by Oxford standards. Today, it functions as one of the main reading rooms of the Bodleian Library as well as the home of several of the library’s collections.

As with other parts of the Bodleian, it’s a functional library and off-limits unless you book onto a tour.

Want to see the very best of Oxford’s landmarks? Book onto a walking tour like this one to ensure you don’t miss a spot.

The Ashmolean Museum

The Ashmolean is Oxford’s flagship museum and one of the top Oxford sights. Widely recognised as the first modern museum in the world, the Ashmolean has been the university’s historical and archaeological collections since 1683.

Though it’s no longer in its original building (it’s grown way too big for them), The Ashmolean remains a fascinating walk through the history of different cultures from around the world.

The eclectic collection spans a broad range of artefacts and exhibits. Want to see larger-than-life casts of Greek and Roman sculptures? They’ve got you covered. How about ceramics and textiles from the Middle East? Same.

The Ashmolean underwent a huge renovation in 2009. The tart-up did it a world of good – collections are thoughtfully and interestingly presented.

Allot at least a few hours to explore. Plus, when you’re finished, spend some time in their rooftop cafe – one of the best cafes in Oxford .

Read More: The Best Museums in Oxford

Punting on the Cherwell

Going punting, with a picnic in tow and perhaps a cheeky concoction of Pimms and Lemonade, is one of the best things to do in Oxford (during the summer months).

Two rivers run through Oxford – the Isis (Thames) and the Cherwell. You can go punting on both—punting is that slightly weird form of boating where you propel the boat with a metal pole—on both.

We recommend the Cherwell for several reasons. First of all, it’s way prettier than the Isis —and obviously, that’s a very important thing.

➥ Book this student-guided punting tour on the Cherwell .

Secondly, if you punt away from the city centre, you slowly leave the crowds behind until it’s just you, your crew and the (sometimes scary) swans that will happily steal your lunch.

Start at Magdalen Bridge, punt upriver to the Victoria Arms in Marston to disembark for a leisurely lunch before floating downstream to where you began. Perfection.

➥ If punting sounds too scary, hop on a sightseeing boat tour like this one to explore Oxford from the water. 

The Pitt Rivers Museum

The Pitt Rivers Museum is one of Oxford’s quirkier and most interesting museums.

Centred around the collection of Augustus Henry Lane-Fox Pitt Rivers, the museum opened in 1887 to showcase its anthropological treasures from around the world.

The Pitt Rivers features over half a million artifacts, which together tell the story of the history of man.

Don’t judge a book by its cover – this really is one of the top things to do in Oxford. Walking around the well-presented exhibits, which are ordered by type and by date, is a peek into faraway cultures.

Admission is free but there is a suggested donation of £5.

Oxford Sightseeing Spots – Must-Visit Oxford University Colleges

Christ church college.

If you only have time to visit one of the University of Oxford’s 38 colleges while you are in town, add Christ Church to your Oxford to do list.

Christ Church’s important history and beautiful architecture make a visit hands down one of the best places to visit in Oxford.

The college was founded almost 500 years ago, by Cardinal Wolsey – until he fell from favour and the college was pinched by King Henry VIII (he of divorced, beheaded, died fame… ).

Over the years, this connection with the Royal family continued. Christ Church was even the seat of King Charles I’s royal parliament during the brief four year period when Oxford was England’s capital during the Civil War.

Fast forward to the present day and you’ll find one of Oxford’s most magnificent colleges and definitely the only one to have its own cathedral.

Start with the vast Tom Quad, flanked by the Christopher Wren-designed Tom Tower then make your way to the dining room – one of Oxford’s unforgettable Harry Potter filming locations.

➥ Take this tour of Oxford University with Christ Church option .

Magdalen College

There aren’t many Oxford colleges that can say they have their own deer park within their grounds… but then Magdalen isn’t like many other Oxford colleges.

First up, Magdalen (pronounced maudlin ) is one of the richest colleges within the university (perhaps that explains the deer park).

Secondly, it’s just so very beautiful that you shouldn’t miss it on your list of places to visit in Oxford.

Like many Oxford colleges, you have to pay to enter. Once you do, take a peek at the cloisters, chapel and hall and, of course, take a turn around the deer park. It would be rude not to.

Keble College

Find yourself getting a bit desensitised to all that handsome sandstone? It’s OK, we’ve all been there.

Enter the Victorian Gothic masterpiece that is Keble College.

We are flabbergasted that Keble doesn’t make it onto many lists of Oxford tourist attractions – there are several reasons why you should add it to your Oxford sightseeing itinerary.

Keble’s crazy architecture – largely redbrick with contrasting white, black and golden patterns – was always meant to make a statement. Think it’s safe to say the architect William Butterfield definitely succeeded in that mission.

What’s more, Keble has a chapel striking enough to stop you in your tracks. Once inside, don’t miss the world-famous Light of the World painting by Holman Hunt – it’s secreted in a small room to the side of the chapel.

As if that’s not enough, the college’s hall is the longest in Oxford – not to mention its most impressive – it makes Christ Church’s look teeny by comparison!

Cool Things to See in Oxford

Sheldonian theatre.

Situated next to the Old Bodleian Library, you’re bound to notice the Sheldonian Theatre – it’s the Neoclassical style D-shaped building that projects out onto Broad Street. Wondering what it is?

The Sheldonian is the official ceremonial hall of Oxford University. As the place where you matriculate (are formally enrolled at the university) and graduate, it holds a special place in students’ hearts.

The Sheldonian was the first significant architectural project of Christopher Wren (who then went on to design some of the most important landmarks in London after the Great Fire – including St Paul’s Cathedral).

If you have time, book a Sheldonian tour , which explores the University’s history and gives you a chance to see the theatre’s interior – dominated by the ceiling fresco “Truth descending on the arts and sciences to expel ignorance from the university”.

University Church of St Mary’s

St Mary’s Church forms one side of Radcliffe Square – clustered by All Soul’s College, Brasenose College, the Old Bodleian and the Radcliffe Camera – it’s one of the top places to see in Oxford.

While the church itself is worth a visit, we’ll let you in on a little secret – the tower should be on your itinerary of things to see in Oxford. For a small fee, you can climb to the top of St Mary’s Tower for the best views of the city.

Now, we won’t lie… climbing to the top of medieval churches strikes fear into our hearts, favourite thing to do and this one is no exception. The steep winding stairs that take you to the top of the tower are vaguely terrifying, particularly on the way down.

That said, the views are absolutely spectacular – you can walk around all four sides for four completely different but equally mesmerising panoramas.

Worth the terror and the sore legs? Totally.

The Bridge of Sighs

Another of Oxford’s sights, the Bridge of Sighs may look vaguely familiar. That’s because it supposedly looks a bit like the famous bridge of the same name in Venice.

The bridge connects two parts of Hertford College – but really much of its appeal is its quirky appearance.

PS, the entrance to the Turf Tavern – one of Oxford’s oldest and prettiest pubs – is tucked down the alley to the left of the bridge if you’re walking away from the Bodleian Library.

➥ Take this tour of that makes a stop at the Bridge of Sighs .

Oxford Castle & Prison

Had enough of historical sites yet? Tough luck if the answer’s yes.

The Oxford Castle & Prison is a medieval Norman castle that’s been transformed into a historical site, hotel and entertainment complex in one.

It’s not as bizarre as it sounds – the hotel (Malmaison) has pimped up the former cells into comfortable rooms, while the bars and eateries are worth a pit stop.

More interested in the actual castle than its contemporary fripperies? You can take a guided tour to learn about the history of the building – which includes a 900-year-old crypt.

Ignoring the fact that the tours are led by costumed characters (shudder) and it’s actually an interesting way to learn about a side of Oxford that has nothing to do with the university.

➥ Book a guided tour of Oxford Castle and Prison .

Cool Things to do in Oxford – Exploring Cultural Oxford

The oxford university museum of natural history.

Housed in the same building as the Pitt Rivers Museum, the Oxford Museum of Natural History is one of the more surprising things to do in Oxford.

The building is impressive enough – its light-filled interior is one of my favourites. Add to that a large collection of zoological and geological specimens and you’ve got an Oxford sightseeing must.

You can’t help but notice the huge dinosaur skeletons that dominate the museum’s collection. Fossils and replicas give you an up-close-and-personal look at the different species on display.

Other highlights include the Oxford Dodo – one of the few of its kind in the world and said to be the inspiration for Lewis Carroll’s character in Alice in Wonderland.

Modern Art Oxford

We’ll level with you – we personally think the exhibitions in Modern Art Oxford can be a bit hit and miss. But that’s standard for small galleries who show innovative exhibitions.

Don’t let it put you off. This small gallery is one of the more unusual things to do in Oxford but is well worth a visit.

Where else can you see exhibitions that aren’t afraid to challenge you or question the status quo – and for free too? When it’s good, it’s really good.

Hunt Out Oxford’s Harry Potter Filming Locations

Harry Potter geeks (us included) will want to check out the famous filming locations dotted across Oxford.

Even if you’re a little more lukewarm about Harry Potter (we’re not sure – can we even be friends?), visiting the filming locations is still an interesting way of seeing different parts of Oxford you might have found otherwise.

The atmospheric New College Cloisters are the perfect example – most people have no reason to hunt them out.

However, when we did (they double up as the spot where Mad Eye Moody turns Draco into a ferret), we found one of Oxford’s hidden treasures and a new favourite spot.

🦉 Check out these highly recommended tours of Harry Potter locations .

Discover Literary Oxford

Given its strong literary heritage, it’s perhaps no surprise that Oxford has more than its fair share of literary spots. Book-lovers can lose themselves in a world of finding the real life inspirations and locations from their favourite books.

Take Alice in Wonderland for example – Lewis Carroll (real name Charles Dodgson) was a scholar at Christ Church. Influences as diverse as the Dodo in the Oxford Museum of Natural History and the door into Christ Church’s cathedral garden find their way into the famous books.

Not forgetting the fantastical Narnia series, written by the well-known Fellow of Magdalen College, C.S Lewis.

Although there are traces of Narnia throughout Oxford, the best-known is the wooden door in the alley that runs down the side of St Mary’s Church.

Look closely and you’ll see that the door is flanked by two fauns, and has a lion on its centrepiece. It’s said to be the wardrobe door the book’s characters step through to reach Narnia…

📚 Take a this private C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien walking tour of Oxford .

Unusual things to do in Oxford

Visit the story museum.

When it comes to quirky Oxford things to do, The Story Museum is an often overlooked spot. This family-friendly spot celebrates the art of stories and story-telling, and the positive effects this has on people’s lives.

Head through the Whispering Wood and the Enchanted Library as stories from the city are told in an immersive and engaging way.

You can also hop onto the magical Story Craft, which allows you to fly through thousands of years of Oxford history – delving deeper into ancient myths and famous literature.

Take a Spooky Ghost Tour

Ready to get spooked? Maybe it’s just us, but we think that one of the best ways to explore a city is to take a creepy ghost tour at night – this one is led by author of Haunted Oxford , Rob Walters.

You’ll begin your journey on the corner of Turl Street – a spot that was once the city ditch and witness to terrible murders and persecution. But that’s only the beginning of your ghost-chasing evening.

From there, your guide will lead you through the creepiest parts of the city, passing sites such as the University and Bridge of Sighs as you go.

👻 Book the official “Haunted Oxford” ghost tour .

Best Things to do in Oxford – Food & Drink

Afternoon tea at the grand cafe.

Afternoon tea is a quintessentially British pastime – one that Oxford happens to do very well. The Grand Cafe is the place for afternoon tea in Oxford.

It stands on the site of England’s oldest coffee house – times and tastes may have changed but The Grand will always dish up fluffy, hot scones, huge slabs of cake and the requisite teas and coffees.

A cream tea, with two (very large) scones, accompanied by lashings of jam and clotted cream (which should be applied to the scone in that order) and a hot beverage of your choice is £10.95. 

An afternoon tea, which features the above, with an additional selection of finger sandwiches and petit fours is just under £20. Go hungry.

Read More: Unmissable Afternoon Teas in Oxford

Explore Oxford’s Cool Cocktail Bars

It would be a huge mistake to visit the city and not spend some time in Oxford’s brilliant cocktail bars .

In particular, Jericho , in the north of the city is a good place to find a cocktail bar or two.

Raoul’s has a reputation for serving up the best. Nearby, The Duke of Cambridge is a brilliant choice (they also just so happen to have a brilliant happy hour).

Freud’s boasts the most impressive setting – it’s located in an old Neoclassical-style church, but cocktails are a bit lacklustre compared to its nearby competitors.

When it comes to cocktails with a view, it should come as no surprise that Oxford has a few contenders – The Varsity Club looks straight out over central Oxford, while The Alchemist offers a different view from atop the Westgate Centre.

Still not enough? Strike out along Cowley Road for more options.

Read more: The Best Cocktail Bars in Oxford

The Eagle & Child

Any Tolkien or C.S Lewis fans in the house? You’ll want to add The Eagle & Child to your things to see and do in the Oxford itinerary.

What may look like a relatively standard pub at first glance has an intriguing history.

It’s best known as the former meeting place of “The Inklings”, a group of writers that included –  you guessed it – Tolkien and Lewis.

The group met here on a weekly basis to discuss and critique each other’s work – maybe if you sit in the same spot, a little of their literary genius will rub off on you…

Oxford Historic Pub Crawl

Whether tucked away on hidden alleys or sat in plain view – Oxford has more than its fair share of historic pubs . We’re yet to find another British city with so many gorgeous old boozers and a mini pub crawl between them is a fun thing to do in Oxford (for adults).

Start with one of the oldest – The Bear Inn. Hidden in the maze of streets between Christchurch and the High Street, there’s been a pub in this spot since 1242 – though its current incarnation dates from the 17th century.

Move on to our favourite, The Turf Tavern, thought to have opened in the 15th century. It’s a bit hard to find, but when you do, you will find a quaint old building that’s straight out of the history books and some of Oxford’s best pints.

From there, it’s a short hop to The Lamb & Flag. Perched across the road from The Eagle & Child, the Inklings also used The Lamb & Flag as one of their meeting spots.

It’s also rumoured that Thomas Hardy wrote much of Jude the Obscure sitting in the pub. Cheers to that.

Read More: Historic Pubs and Cool Drinking Dens in Oxford

The Covered Market

The 18th-century Covered Market sits in the heart of Oxford. Over 40 traders have stalls and shops within the market – pop in for a browse and you’re never sure what you’ll come out with.

The best way to explore is to just have a wander around, but there are a couple of places you shouldn’t miss while you’re there.

Coffee lovers should make a beeline for Colombia Coffee Roasters, an independent coffee shop who sources their beans from their own family farm in Colombia.

Hop into Ben’s Cookies next door for one (or three) of their indulgently gooey and delicious cookies or iScream for a tasty gelato.

Read More: The Best Cafes in Oxford

Best Places to Visit in Oxford – Parks and Green Spaces

Christ church meadow.

Those wondering what to see in Oxford will be delighted to find out that the city has a surprising number of green spaces – including Christ Church Meadow.

Sandwiched between the River Isis (the stretch of the river Thames that runs through Oxford), the river Cherwell and Christ Church College, the Meadow is one of the best places to visit in Oxford on a warm summer’s day.

Rowers heave boats onto the river from the boat houses that line the Isis – plump yourself down on the grass and watch as they skull their way along the river, or have a picnic under the shade of a tree – just watch out for the cows.

Port Meadow (and a Few Gorgeous Pubs)

Much beloved by locals but largely overlooked by tourists, Port Meadow is an extensive meadow in the north of Oxford, above the Jericho area of town.

The meadow is part of an ancient patch of grazing land that dates back over 4,000 years. You’ll still find cows and horses roaming free on the meadow today.

While it’s nice enough for a stroll or a picnic on the banks of the Thames, it doesn’t hurt that the meadow leads to two of Oxford’s prettiest pubs – The Perch and The Trout.

The Perch – a 17th-century country inn – is closer and a lovely spot for a quiet drink or two.

It’s a bit of a walk to The Trout but the walk takes you through bucolic scenes that have remained largely unchanged for millennia.

What’s more, the pub serves great food AND has peacocks roaming freely in its gardens.

Oxford Botanic Gardens & Arboretum

Oxford’s Botanic Gardens is the oldest botanic garden in the UK and one of the oldest in the world. They’re the peaceful escape in the heart of the city – bursting with over 6,000 plant species that are organised into a series of collections.

It’s educational, but the real joy is simply appreciating the dramatic plantings, which somehow look good at any time of the year.

The glasshouses are our favourite part of the garden – a stroll through them transports you to different parts of the world, where tropical palms grow taller than houses, or where desert cacti burst into rare blooms.

Any fans of Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials trilogy should also keep an eye out for a bench overlooking the Isis, which is said to be the place where the main characters Lyra and Will return year after year in their respective worlds.

Fans have etched tribute messages into the bench – you will know it when you see it.  

There we are – the top things to do in Oxford. Are you ready to explore?

Things to do in Oxford: Tips for Planning Your Trip

• Oxford makes the perfect day trip from London – but we always advise to spend more time there if you can. We suggest three days to explore the city at a leisurely pace.
• Don’t bother with the hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus. The city centre is surprisingly small and very walkable. So many of the best things to do in Oxford are clustered in a small area that taking the bus just isn’t worth it.
• There are millions of tours of Oxford and not all of them are created equal. We’ve used GetYourGuide for tours in the past as they are very reliable. The tours offered by the Bodleian Library, the Sheldonian and The Ashmolean are all very interesting.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes. We mean it. Those cobbles will destroy your feet if you venture out in heels.
• We’ve only covered central Oxford as this is what most visitors focus on – but there’s a lot more to discover down the Cowley and Iffley Roads if you have a little more time.

Oxford Attractions: Map

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Visit Oxford or Cambridge: Choosing a London Day Trip

Last Updated on February 23, 2024

by Paola Drexler

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

If you’re visiting London and only have the time for one or two day trips, inevitably you will be trying to decide between planning a visit to Oxford or Cambridge – to of the world’s most iconic university towns.

In general, visiting Oxford is a great choice for those looking for a livelier city. On the other hand, Cambridge is a great choice for those looking for a quieter, picture-perfect getaway.

From London, both are easy to visit with lots of connections and a short travel time. Both cities have universities that are considered amongst the best in the world and are rich in history, as well as being located in the beautiful English countryside. However, which one should you choose to visit?

Table of Contents

Known for having one of the most prestigious universities in the world boasting alumni such as Oscar Wilde, Lewis Carroll and JRR Tolkien, the city of Oxford is not only a great representation of a quaint English town but also a major city for science, technology, art and innovation.

Accessibility

Oxford is easily accessible by most modes of transportation and is especially popular for visitors travelling from London as you can reach the city in around an hour by train.

One of the most convenient and best ways to do an Oxford day trip from London is by train. You can start your day by catching a train from Paddington Station in West London.

You can expect trains to pass more frequently on a weekday than on the weekend. So plan accordingly. You can buy tickets and view schedules here .

If you prefer travelling by bus, your journey will take a bit longer but the frequency in which the buses pass is better with the waiting time being no more than 10 to 15 minutes.

Of course, you can also drive to Oxford from London. You can browse options here if you’re looking to rent a car. Travelling by car can have the added bonus of being able to explore other must-see England destinations on the way.

Once you’re at Oxford, it is easy to explore on foot since the main sights are within the city centre.

Affordability

When considering the affordability element to deciding whether to visit Cambridge or Oxford, the cost doesn’t differ too much.

Generally, statistics show that London is the most expensive city in the UK with other cities in the south of England including Cambridge, Brighton and, of course, Oxford coming in not far behind. That being said, this has more to do with the cost of living and is unlikely to have much of a difference to a tourist visiting for a day.

In general, you can expect a visit to Oxford to cost more or less the same as heading to Cambridge and will fall in line with your overall England travel costs .

Things to do in Oxford

There are so many things to do in Oxford. On a day trip to Oxford, you can go around the university town to the different University of Oxford colleges, walking the same paths numerous students and famous scholars have walked. You can  book this walking tour or this guided walking tour  to learn more about the history of the city.

In the heart of the city, you can climb up 99 steps to the viewing platform of Oxford’s highest building — the Carfax Tower. From the tower, you’ll get a stunning panoramic view of the old city from above.

From here you’ll be able to visit Christ Church College and see firsthand where some of the scenes from Harry Potter took place.

In fact, the dining hall in Christ Church was replicated to create the Great Hall of Hogwarts and seeing it is enough to make any Harry Potter fan swoon. Other filming sites for the movies in Oxford include the Bodleian Library and the New College. You can also view the gorgeous Gothic architecture of the Christ Church Cathedral and the college chapel.

Nearby, on Golden Cross, you’ll come across the popular Covered Market where you can browse to find what your heart desires whether that be clothes, treats or other fun things.

On High Street, you’ll be stopped in your tracks when you spot the University Church of St Mary the Virgin. The magnificent church has been a thriving institution in Oxford for over seven hundred years.

From here if you continue on St Mary’s Passage you’ll find the impressive Radcliffe Camera. Today, you can sit in the reading room of the Radcliffe but with its long and rich history, you might be pleasantly surprised by what you learn about it like how it’s the first circular library in England.

If you’re still in the mood for some reading, you can visit the original Blackwell’s bookshop and roam the store until you find your next book, music or work of art.

Last but not least, when you both towns, you’ll get a chance to experience the well-known colleges. Although the University of Oxford’s colleges are mostly spread out around the city, you can find what resembles a traditional main campus at the Science Area near the Radcliffe Camera.

If you have more time to explore, you can always stroll around the University Parks to the beautiful gardens. You can also take in the beautiful architecture at the Oxford Divinity School.

Day Tours from London to Oxford

If you’d rather take the guesswork out of planning your day trip to Oxford, then heading to the city on a guided tour is an excellent choice. There are lots of options that include stops in the city to choose from.

For example, this full-day tour or this full-day tour are great choices and they also include stops in some of the charming villages in the Cotswolds – not far from Oxford itself. So you get to explore more of England!

Another great option is this guided tour which also includes stops in both Oxford and some charming Cotswolds villages .

If you’re keen to see Stonehenge and Windsor Castle along with visiting Oxford, then you may find this group tour to be a great option.

And Harry Potter fans will absolutely love this full-day tour which includes a visit to the studio in Watford along with a tour of Oxford.

Located along the River Cam, Cambridge has a long history dating back to the 13th century which makes it a compelling and beautiful city to visit.

The university boasts alumni such as Sir Isaac Newton, Stephen Hawking and Charles Darwin and the city itself has a lot to offer visitors. Visiting Cambridge as a day trip from London is a great way to experience this quintessential university town.

When choosing between Oxford or Cambridge to visit, you can take the distance into consideration. However, it takes around 1 to 1.5 hours to reach Cambridge from London – similar to that when travelling to Oxford.

If you’re looking to travel with ease and convenience, an excellent option to get to Cambridge is by train, just buy your ticket beforehand to save on tickets .

Another option is to travel by bus, although it takes longer you can save some money on the fare. One way of your journey will take about 3 hours and you can catch the bus at London Victoria Station. You can also browse the bus schedules here .

Similar to Oxford, once you arrive in the city it is easy to walk around to the must-see spots.

In general, you can freely pick between Oxford and Cambridge to visit and choose which one you like the most without putting too much thought into the cost as the deciding factor.

Depending on what your plans are, you can control how much you spend when exploring the city. If you’re looking to stick to a budget, it won’t be a problem since most of the main attractions are free.

As mentioned already, there isn’t a huge difference in price between the two cities so this is not a major determining factor.

Things to do in Cambridge

On your visit to Cambridge, you’ll discover that there’s so much history and beauty all around the city. If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed with all the available activities and sights to see, you can join a free walking tour or this paid walking tour that can help lead the way around the city.

If you’re in the mood to explore on your own, you can’t go wrong visiting a few of the 31 Cambridge colleges to get a feel for the city. For example, two of the most popular colleges are Trinity College and King’s College.

You can pay to enter the colleges and even just admiring them from the outside is worth the visit but you can also get a good view from the grounds of King’s College or by entering through Trinity Lane to take a better look at Trinity College.

On Cambridge Market Hill, you can take a stroll through the market to search for delicious food, jewellery, clothes and other treasures.

To see and hear one of the city’s impressive works of art you’ll have to walk to the Taylor Library to see the Corpus Clock. The clock is more of an art display than an actual functioning clock because it doesn’t always tell you the accurate time.

For a bigger dose of art, you can visit The Fitzwilliam Museum free of charge. Here you’ll find treasures from all over the world including paintings, ornaments and trinkets.

After touring the museum, you can experience the city on the water and take a punt down the river. You can either do the punting yourself or relax and enjoy the ride while someone else does it for you.

To finish your day on a high note you can climb up the steps at St Mary’s church and get a mesmerising view of Cambridge from above. Of course, nothing beats unwinding with a pint at one of Cambridge’s many pubs.

Day Tours from London to Cambridge

If you’d prefer to head to Cambridge on an organised tour rather than deal with train timetables and transport yourself, then there are a number of different options available to you.

For example, this guided tour can be the perfect choice if you’re unable to choose between Cambridge vs Oxford and it will take you to both in one day! Perfect for the indecisive among us.

Another excellent option if you’re keen to simply visit Cambridge as a singular destination is this full-day tour from London. It includes a guided walking tour of the town along with some free time for independent exploration.

Oxford vs Cambridge: The Verdict

On the surface, there is not a lot of difference between Cambridge and Oxford so it can be a bit tricky to choose which is the better day trip option. However, both cities have their similarities and differences that make them each unique.

If you’re looking for a livelier city then Oxford is for you, but if you’re looking for a more picture-perfect city then Cambridge takes the win.

Oxford is also a good option for fans of Harry Potter as there are several filming locations scattered throughout the city. Due to its location, Oxford also make a good jumping-off point for exploring the towns and villages in the Cotswolds if you have the time.

Cambridge is smaller than Oxford but no less charming – in fact, it may be even more so! It’s compact nature makes it a joy to explore and the backs of the colleges and it’s ideal location on the River Cam make it a tremendous place for a historic and tranquil getaway. And though it is popular in both cities, Cambridge is also an excellent place to try your hand at punting!

No matter which city you decide on, you’ll finish your day trip with beautiful memories.

Both Oxford and Cambridge have a lot to offer visitors – from historic city centres, fascinating universities and a vibrant student life. You cannot go wrong with whichever you end up choosing.

Are you considering visiting Cambridge or Oxford? Have any questions about the cities? Let us know in the comments!

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About Paola Drexler

Paola is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the state of Arizona in the USA, she lived in Germany before moving to the United Kingdom. Paola loves spending her free time travelling in Europe and sometimes ever further afield.

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26 Brilliant Day Trips from London to Help You Explore the Rest of England

Looking for the best day trips from London? It’s time to hop onto a train and explore the hidden gems around the English capital. 

What is it they say? Tired of London, tired of life? While I think it’s pretty impossible to ever tire of this gorgeous city, I don’t blame you for wanting to escape the hustle and bustle and head out on an epic day trip.

But, with so many incredible towns and cities just a train ride away, where do you start?

Let me help. Here’s my guide to the best day trips from London.

The Best Day Trips From London

I’m going to start with Oxford as it has a (very) special place in my heart. As an ex-Oxford Uni student, I’ve spent plenty of time in this gorgeous city.

The city is filled with things to do, though most of the city’s main sights can be seen on a day trip. Pop by the Radcliffe Camera, meander your way through Christ Church gardens (perhaps on a punt if you fancy taking to the water) and hit up the Ashmolean museum for a spot of culture. 

One of the main reasons people visit Oxford is to see the colleges – if you only have time to see one, make it Christ Church or Keble (I studied at the latter). And If you want the best view of Oxford, you’ll want to shell out £4 to climb up the tower at the Church of St Mary The Virgin. It’s quite literally breathtaking.

If you want to experience the most quintessentially English city in the whole of the UK, a day trip to Oxford from London should be at the very top of your list.

How to Get There: You can catch the train from Paddington or Marylebone. The Oxford Tube coach service is an alternative method, which runs until 3 am.

Average journey duration: 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes

Hassle-free option: Book This Full-Day Tour to Oxford and Cambridge

Another history-filled day trip from London is Bath. Start the day by exploring the Roman baths and learning more about the city’s previous inhabitants.

Then, it’s time for some R&R. Indulge in a treatment or two at the Thermae Bath Spa, a rooftop pool with spectacular views of Bath. The steam rooms here are nothing short of spectacular.

Jane Austen fan? Live your fantasy by strolling along the Royal Crescent before hitting up the Jane Austen Centre, where you can delve deeper into the life and times of the famous author. 

Oh, and all of the above should be interspersed with stops to charming tea rooms (scones are obligatory) and lunch at the Good Day Cafe.

How to Get There: The train from Paddington heads straight to Bath.

Average journey duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Hassle-free option: Book This Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath Day Trip  

The Cotswolds

For a romantic day trip from London, there’s nowhere quite like The Cotswolds. This is the place for anyone who wants to experience the charming English countryside.

The stone villages and traditional towns of the Cotswolds are what attract people to this area. But, don’t worry – while it’s a pretty tranquil place, there are plenty of amazing things to do in the Cotswolds .

My picks? Head to Blenheim Palace for a chance to explore one of the UK’s most stunning estates, spend a day strolling through Bourton on the Water and sink a couple of pints at The Porch House (the oldest pub in Britain, FYI). You can even see Arlington Row, the real version of the image found inside UK passports. 

How to Get There: The train from Marylebone or Paddington will take you to the Cotswolds.

Average journey duration: 50 minutes to 1 hour and 40 minutes

Hassle-free option: Book This Small Group Cotswolds Villages Tour  

This next spot will be no secret to those who love keeping up with the Royal Family. And, to be totally honest, even if you’re not a big fan of the royals, Windsor Castle is absolutely enchanting.

This castle is home to over 1,000 years of royal history. You can see the changing of the guard, state apartments, St George’s Chapel and plenty more here. Make sure to take on the Long Walk for the full experience.

How to Get There: You can catch the train to Windsor at Paddington or Waterloo.

Average journey duration: 50 minutes

Hassle-free option: Book This Royal Windsor Afternoon Tour from London 

Bletchley Park

Fancy one of the easiest day trips from London? Bletchley Park, in Milton Keynes, is a place rooted in English history – it’s where Alan Turing broke the Enigma code, and the Codebreakers got their start.

During World War II, 75% of the staff were women, with six out of ten women in uniform. The Codebreakers became a part of history, and you’ll be able to see exactly where it all happened at Bletchley Park.

Even if you’re not into the historical side of things, the grounds here are hella beautiful and make for a gorgeous picnic spot.

How to Get There: You can grab the train from Euston directly to Bletchley, and then it’s about a 5-minute walk.

Average journey duration: 45 minutes

Brighton is another city I’m a HUGE fan of. Not only known for its wall-to-wall live music venues and pebble beach, but it’s also got a thriving LGBTQ+ and nightlife scene. 

My favourite thing to do? Chill out on Palace Pier while enjoying some classic fish and chips (just be aware of the seagulls).

Once you’re stuffed and ready to take on Brighton, head to the Lanes – it’s shopping time. This spot has everything from vegan eateries to independent boutiques and record stores. It’s a hipster playground.

How to Get There: You can take the train straight to Brighton from Victoria, London Bridge, or Blackfriars.

Average journey duration: 1 hour

Hassle-free option: Book This Brighton & Seven Sisters Small-Group Tour  

Cambridge is the smaller and quieter sister town to Oxford (it might be prettier, but don’t tell anybody I said that). It’s also known for its colleges, so taking time to stroll around the many campuses is a must. 

But what else should you do? Add King’s Chapel to your list of sights, while the Fitzwilliam Museum is waiting for you to see the famous Magic Apple Tree painting. 

And, if you strike it lucky with the weather, head to the river for some punting. 

How to Get There: You can catch the train from either King’s Cross or Liverpool Street.

Average journey duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour and 15 minutes

Hassle-free option: Book This Oxford and Cambridge Universities Tour  

Rye is one of Britain’s most beautiful towns and home to probably the most gorgeous street in the country, Mermaid Street (aptly named).

If you’re looking for a more laid back day trip that you can take at your own pace, this is perfect. Hit up the Rye Castle Museum before exploring Mermaid Street. 

Once you’ve had your fill, grab a rustic supper at the Tuscan Rye. Thank me later.

How to Get There: Take the train from St Pancras International. There will be one change at Ashford International to get to Rye.

Average journey duration: 1 hour and 10 minutes

Salisbury is a city in Wiltshire known for the Salisbury Cathedral, a stunning building and one of Britain’s most beautiful churches. It also has the highest church spire in the country. 

I highly recommend you take a walking tour through Salisbury’s Old City Center to discover more about this fascinating place (and its recent controversies) and stroll the gorgeous cobblestone streets. It doesn’t get better than pounding the streets in the heart of this medieval city. 

How to Get There: This day trip from London by train starts at Waterloo.

Average journey duration: 1 hour and 25 minutes

Hassle-free option: Book This Stonehenge, Windsor and Salisbury Guided Tour

Speaking of: Stonehenge, the classic prehistoric monument, is a staple when considering a day trip from London. If you’re not clued up on the landmark, Stonehenge is a collection of sarsen stones that appeared one day, and nobody knows why.

Historians debate the original purpose of Stonehenge. However, most will agree that they constructed this monument for spiritual reasons. The main attraction is the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Stone Circle. However, there are five onsite Neolithic houses that you can see as well.

How to Get There : You can catch the train from Waterloo for your Stonehenge day trip from London.

Average journey duration: 2 hours and 15 minutes

Hassle-free option: Book This Stonehenge Half-Day Morning or Afternoon Tour 

Stratford-upon-Avon

So, you’ve seen the Globe Theatre, but are you ready to check out Shakespeare’s home? The Bard himself is, of course, the big draw to Stratford-upon-Avon. 

However, this spot is so much more than just a Tudor playground. The cobbled streets are dotted with cosy cafes and excellent pubs. And you can even take a boat tour of the canal basin and learn more about the West Midlands waterways. 

Visit the Royal Shakespeare Company theatre to catch a classic Shakespearean tale. And, of course, you can’t forget the house of the Bard when ticking off your list of sights.

How to Get There: You can catch the train from Marylebone to Stratford-upon-Avon.

Hassle-free option: Book This Walking Tour with a Local Guide

You can’t find a better seaside spot than Whitstable. Seafood, sand and sunsets are the staples of this gorgeous area. 

You can rent a bike from Whitstable Cycle Hire and ride down the spectacular five-mile seafront Oyster Bay Trail. Watch them shuck oysters at The Forge before you indulge in around a dozen or so. 

How to Get There: You can take the train straight to Whitstable from Victoria or St Pancras International.

It’s time to live your very own Canterbury tale. Back in the day of Chaucer, this spot was where people came for religious events. Today, spending a day in Canterbury is a popular trip.

Stroll down the King’s Mile and shop at some cute little boutiques. For something a little quirkier, head to the House of Art and Knowledge to see a mummified cat and some important cow paintings. 

If you’re feeling peckish, then pizza at The Goods Shed will hit just right.

How to Get There: The train from St Pancras International will take you straight to Canterbury.

Average journey duration: 1 hour.

Hassle-free option: Book This Canterbury Cathedral, Dover Castle, and White Cliffs Tour  

Hampton Court

After a short day trip from London? Hampton Court is all about the palace. If you visit this spot, you will get lost in the history of this famous building where Henry VIII lived. 

Initially built by Cardinal Wolsey, Henry pinched it a few years after construction and lived there with all six of his wives at some point.

The gardens are also absolutely gorgeous – and worth an exploration in their own right. Ensure you don’t miss checking out the maze, the oldest surviving hedge maze left in the world.

How to Get There: The train from Waterloo should get you to Hampton Court.

Hassle-free option: Book This Royal Hampton Court Guided Tour with Afternoon Tea 

Bristol is a city known for its food. You won’t go hungry here, if the award-winning eateries and restaurants have anything to do with it. 

Spots like The Ethicurean and Bravas give the best restaurants in London a run for their money. Michelin stars are also abundant in this little city. 

Believe it or not, there’s more to this city than good eats. For some non-food adventures, you can take a walking tour to hit the main sights in one day. And the street art in Bristol is, quite frankly, some of the best in the world. Boat trips are also trendy if you prefer a water-based city tour.

How to Get There: The train from Paddington will get you to Bristol in no time.

Average journey duration: 1 hour and 45 minutes

Hassle-free option: Book This Self-Guided Sightseeing Audio Tour  

Colchester, originally a Roman city, has a rich history as Britain’s oldest recorded town. But it also happens to be a downright gorgeous escape from the buzz of the capital.

Here you can see the remains of the Roman wall, and the Roman Circus, the only verified Roman chariot racing track still standing today. 

After spending the morning walking in the Romans’ footsteps, stop for some cream tea at one of the many fantastic shops. The George is my top pick, but you won’t go too far wrong wherever you opt to indulge.

How to Get There: Catch the train from Liverpool Street to Colchester.

Hassle-free option: Book This Tour of Colchester

Ever heard the song about the White Cliffs of Dover and wondered what’s so special about them? You must get to Dover ASAP. 

These chalky white cliffs were on the front line for both world wars. If you’re lucky enough to go on a clear day, you might even see all the way to France.

Dover Castle is also a must-see on your trip to Dover. It’s one of England’s biggest castles , and none other than William the Conqueror built it in 1066. 

How to Get There: Catch the train from St Pancras International to Dover Priory.

Average journey duration: 1 hour and 5 minutes

Hassle-free option: Book This White Cliffs of Dover and Canterbury Day-Trip 

Henley on Thames

Henley on Thames is one of England’s traditional market towns. However, it’s more well known for the annual regatta, where it really comes to life. 

Stop by the River & Rowing Museum to learn about the history of this famous sport. There’s also a Wind in the Willows experience which is fun for both kids and adults (and the child within you). You can see the adorable world of the famous characters Ratty, Mole and Mr. Toad.

How to Get There: Grab the train from Paddington, then change at Twyford to get to Henley on the Thames.

Lewes is a gorgeous market town that sits against green peaks and chalky hills. The 1960s-style cobblestone streets and crumbling tiles make for a unique day trip from London.

Lewes Flea Market is also a spectacular spot for some fantastic vintage finds. Head to Bill’s for a hearty bacon, beef and camembert burger. You also can’t miss Lewes Castle and the Fifteenth Century Bookshop.

How to Get There: Catch the train from Victoria to Lewes.

Average journey duration: Around 1 hour

If you’re up for a further day trip, Manchester is one of the more famous cities in this guide – known for being the home of Manchester United. 

From its history in the Industrial Revolution to being the birthplace of Oasis (before the Gallagher brothers started feuding), Manchester has many stories to tell.

Take a guided tour of the BBC before exploring the many museums. The footie fans need to visit Old Trafford. And Manchester Cathedral is another spot to add to your list of sights.

How to Get There: The train from Euston will get you to Manchester.

Average journey duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes

Hassle-free option: Book This Food and Drinks Walking Tour  

Sandy beaches, craft beer and cold brew coffee are the key elements to a fantastic Margate day trip. You can also head to the Turner Contemporary Gallery for gorgeous art. 

If you want more of a retro time, the roller disco and theme park Dreamland is the spot for you.

I love Margate’s indie shopping scene, too. My recommendations? Haeckels has fantastic seaweed-based skin care, while Breuer & Dawson offers a lot of vintage pieces to continue the retro theme of Margate. 

How to Get There : You can take the train from St Pancras International to Margate.

The New Forest

I’ll come straight out with it: The New Forest is a criminally underrated spot in the UK. Especially if you’re a nature lover.

One of the main pulls are the sweet little ponies who have lived there for thousands of years and generations. I think the Highland cows are the best part, though – if you’ve never seen these fluffy cows, then this is your sign to book RN.

How to Get There: The easiest way to get there is to take the train from Waterloo to Brockenhurst.

Yes, really – this is the Paris in France. It might sound like an odd choice, however, a day trip to Paris from London is quite popular. Who wouldn’t want to jump on a train and head to Paris for the day? C’est la vie!

Some unmissable spots in Paris include the infamous Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral – sans Disney characters with humpbacks. The Louvre and Arc de Triomphe are other exceptional spots for first timers.

If you’re looking to get a little bit more off-the-tourist path, spend the afternoon exploring Le Marais and head to Musée de l’Orangerie to see some of Monet’s best works.

How to Get There: Jump on the Eurostar at St Pancras International to head straight to Paris.

Hassle-free option: Book This Welcome to Paris Day Trip from London via Train 

Portsmouth is the UK’s only waterfront city. It’s packed to the brim with unique attractions, rich history and fun things to do all year round. 

Head to Spinnaker Tower, which they modelled on a sail to reflect the maritime history of Portsmouth. You also can’t miss Gunwharf Quays, which is super chic and serves all your shopping needs.

How to Get There: The train from Victoria or Waterloo should get you to Portsmouth in no time.

Average journey duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes to 1 hour and 50 minutes

Hassle-free option: Book This Old Portsmouth Historical Walking Tour 

Another day trip from London you shouldn’t miss is Winchester. This cathedral city in Hampshire is well known for its medieval cathedral. This enormous Gothic-style structure has a lot of stories to tell. 

The history of the building stretches as far back as AD 642 – and there’s also an Antony Gormley statue in the crypt that you need to see. After exploring the impressive cathedral, take a stroll along River Itchen to soak up the countryside. 

How to Get There: Catch the train at Waterloo to get to Winchester.

Average journey duration: 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes

Hassle-free option: Book This Historic Castles and Cathedrals Walking Tour 

I love York. It’s the perfect day trip from London for both Potterheads and culture seekers (I’m both, FYI). 

It’s most well known for York Minster, the Gothic masterpiece that is one of the UK’s oldest cathedrals. It dates back to the 7th century, and the architecture is astounding. 

Stop at the Chocolate Story museum to learn about 3,000 years of choc history. Then head to the Shambles for some Harry Potter-style winding streets packed with tea shops and cute storefronts.

How to Get There: You can catch the train from Kings Cross to York.

Average journey duration: 1 hour and 50 minutes

Hassle-free option: Book This City Highlights Small Group Walking Tour 

Practical Tips for Easy Day Trips From London

• British trains are very expensive these days, so purchase your train tickets as far in advance as you can. Buying one of the many railcards offered can be worthwhile.
• Check the weather forecast and pack some extra layers in case you need them during the day. Wear your comfiest shoes if you plan to be walking a lot.

Map of Day Tours from London

London Day Trips: Read More UK Travel Guides

• Unmissable Things to do in England
• English Castles You Need to Visit
• Where to Stay in London: Area by Area
• Brilliant Things to do in Scotland
• Bucket List Things to do in the UK

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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